
v^ 



Book ( '' , '^ i_^^ 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSHV 



A History of Schenectady 
During the Revolution 

TO WHICH IS APPENDED 

A CONTRIBUTION TO THE INDIVIDUAL RECORDS 

OF THE INHABITANTS of the SCHENECTADY 

DISTRICT DURING THAT PERIOD 



By 
WILLIS T. HANSON, Jr., A.M. 




PRIVATELY PRINTED 
MDCCCCXVI 






Copyright, 1916 
By Willis T. Hanson, Jr. 



Published July, 1916 
One Thousand Copies Printed from Type 



IG 25 1916 



g)CU4'37630 



TO MY MOTHER 

THIS WORK 

IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED 



PREFATORY NOTE 

The Mstory of Schenectady during the troublesome 
times of the Revolution is so closely linked with the 
affairs of the whole Mohawk Valley, and with the 
tides of the Border Wars that laid waste the sur- 
rounding country almost to her gates, that, in dealing 
with the history of the one, one must necessarily touch 
to a large extent upon the history of the other. 



INTRODUCTION 

While in the title of this work I have made a dis- 
tinction between the town of Schenectady and the 
Schenectady District, which included both the present 
townships of Glenville and Rotterdam and because 
of its proximity to the district, for military organi- 
zation, Princetown, and while I have laid stress for the 
most part on the activities of the town proper, it will 
be seen that by reason of the men of the district shar- 
ing as they did with the inhabitants of the town the 
burden of civil and military service and the creation 
of the activities to which the following pages relate, 
the history of the town in reality becomes the history 
of the district. 

In gathering material for this work I have been 
struck with the scarcity of available manuscript 
sources of information. 

In the minutes of the various Committees of Safety 
which rightly form the base upon which the history 
of the early years of the war is built, wide gaps 
appear and the only manuscript records of these 
boards now known to exist are those covering the 
period from January 15, 1777, to February 17, 1778, 
deposited in the Library of Congress (Force Collec- 
tion), which, being wrongly labeled and catalogued, 
were discovered by the writer only by the merest 
chance. 

Judge Sanders, writing in 1879, had before him a 
record book of one hundred and sixty- two closely 



via INTRODUCTION 



written pages covering the minutes of the first Board 
and its successors, but unfortunately he has given us 
but a few scattered extracts of the valuable and inter- 
esting data which it contained. Judge Yates, writing 
some twenty-three years later, intimates that he also 
had access to these records, but more unfortunately 
still, instead of making use of the rare opportunity 
afforded, such passages as he has given us are iden- 
tical with those transcribed by Judge Sanders. 

Fortunately for posterity, before the record book 
became irrevocably lost it came to the attention of 
one who with considerable labor and expense has 
given us, in a little magazine which he called the 
American Antiquarian and Quarterly Genealogical 
Record (note 4, p. 18), the minutes from the first 
meeting of the Board on May 6, 1775, to and including 
the minutes of the meeting of May 27, 1776. 

While, without a doubt, many of the records of our 
early days were destroyed in the fire that in 1819 
swept the lower part of the town, it is mainly to negli- 
gence, carelessness and a lack of appreciation of 
historical value that we owe our present lack of manu- 
script sources of information. 

Papers found in old trunks and boxes stored away 
in the garrets of houses dating back to the early days 
are constantly coming to light to bear their testimony 
to the truths of the past. That there are many more 
such trunks and boxes in many more such garrets is 
not an unreasonable supposition, and that we may not 
fin4 ourselves guilty of that neghgence that has been 
responsible for the loss of so much valuable data in 
the past it becomes our duty to make available for 
posterity such pertinent matter as we may chance 



INTRODUCTION ix 



upon, either by depositing it with libraries and socie- 
ties formed for the safe keeping of such material or 
by calling it to the attention of some historian whose 
interest in his subject should be an assurance of a 
proper use being made of it. 



Willis T. Hanson, Jb. 



CHAPTER I 
THE VALLEY OF THE MOHAWK 

Due to its unique geographical position, New York, 
in those early times when the rivers and lakes afforded 
practically the only highways of importance, was 
rightly felt to be the key to the American continent, 
and from its infancy hostile nations contested its 
possession. 

Among those factors which gave New York her 
strategical prominence the Mohawk River played no 
small part, for by its means alike were accessible the 
lands to the westward, through the only valley pass 
piercing the Appalachian Range; the Great Lakes, 
through the all but intermingling of its headwaters 
with the streams flowing northward into them, and 
the Atlantic seacoast, through the Hudson River. 

It was the early realization of the importance of 
the Mohawk River that led the Iroquois Confederacy 
to stretch its dominion throughout the Valley, thus 
enabling its warriors to maintain that supremacy 
over far distant tribes^ which for so many years they 
enjoyed. 

With the coming of the white man in greater num- 
bers, to the importance of the Mohawk River from a 

1 At the era of their highest military supremacy, about the year 
1660, the Iroquois, in their warlike expeditions, ranged unresisted from 
New England to the Mississippi, and from the St. Lawrence to the Ten- 
nessee. Lewis H. Morgan. 



HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



military standpoint was added a commercial value 
increasing with the demands upon it until the opening 
of the Erie Canal transferred the traffic to that chan- 
nel. The Old Iroquois Trail- in its turn gave way to 
the stage road, and this in its turn to the railroad; 
the successors in each case, however, following the 
well-defined line of early travel. 

Along these lines of communication the early pio- 
neers, for the most part, established their homes, until 
on the eve of the Revolution the population of the 
Mohawk Valley may be roughly estimated as totaling 
ten thousand souls. 

To the westward the settlements extended in a nar- 
row belt as far as the present town of German Flats, 
settled and owned as far as Canajoharie in the main 
by the Dutch, many of them descendants of the first 
settlers of Schenectady or emigrants from it, and 
beyond Canajoharie by the Palatines;'' northward to 
a short distance beyond Johnstown, where had settled 
many Irish and Scotch-Highlanders* following Sir 

2 Proceeding from the site of Albany, the central trail entered the 
lands now covered by the city of Schenectady by the ravine through 
which the railroad now passes and crossed the Mohawk at a ford where 
now stands the Scotia bridge. From this fording place two trails 
passed up the river one on either side. Lewis H. Morgan. 

3 In 1723 a large tract of land was purchased from the Indians to 
be later confirmed by letters patent from the King. To this tract soon 
came many of those Palatine Germans who had in 1711 settled at 
Schoharie and who had been led to change their place of residence 
because of difficulties arising over their titles. Accessions to the settle- 
ment were made from time to time until at the period of the Eevolution 
it embraced one of the most prosperous sections of Tryon County. 

4 They had been induced to immigrate by Sir William Johnson and 
were settled as tenants on his estates in various parts of the Kingsboro 
Tract. 



THE VALLEY OF THE MOHAWK 



William Johnson;^ southward to the headwaters of 
the Susquehanna, settled mainly by Scotch-Irish,® and 
in the valley of the Schoharie to some seven miles 
beyond Middleburg, settled also by Palatine Germans/ 
From among the English, Irish and Scotch-High- 
landers mainly were recruited the Tories, while from 
the ranks of the Dutch and Palatines and from the 
Scotch-Irish came the men to whom we owe Oriskany 
and upon whom fell the burdens of resisting the 
repeated raids of Indian and Tory that swept the 
Valley with a fury that was paralleled in no other sec- 
tion of the Colonies during the whole war. 

6 Sir William Johnson came to the Mohawk Valley in 1738, as the 
agent of his uncle, Sir Peter Warren. He founded a settlement which 
he called Warren's Bush and remained there five years. He then 
removed to a tract of land near Amsterdam which he had acquired in 
1741 and upon which he had already erected the stone house, still stand- 
ing, known as Fort Johnson. He removed to Johnson Hall, Johnstown, 
in 1763. 

6 In 1741 several families, induced to emigrate from Londonderry, 
N. H., settled on the Lindesay Patent. 

7 This was the original Palatine settlement, dating back to 1711, from 
which those who had settled at Stone Arabia had removed. 



CHAPTER II 

SCHENECTADY 

The approximately twenty-four hundred souls who, 
in 1773, composed the population^ of Schenectady, 
were chiefly of Low Dutch origin. Among them, 
however, were numbered some Irish and not a few 
English,^ for there had been many immigrants from 
New England, while British regulars and New Eng- 
land militia had for nearly a century garrisoned^ the 
fort, and discharged soldiers mixing with the popula- 
tion had married Dutch wives and become settlers. 
The English element had moreover been augmented* 
from time to time by those who came direct from their 

1 Colonel Henry B. Livingston, in his manuscript journal of the 
Canadian expedition, places the number of houses in Schenectady in 
1775 as three hundred. This is the same number as noted by Eichard 
Smith in 1769. The Marquis de Chastelleux states that eight people 
were the average number residing in one house. The vrriter is inclined 
to believe that the estimate of Jabez Maud Fisher of four hundred 
houses in 1773 is too high and he has consequently determined the 
population of the tovm proper at this period on the basis of three 
hundred houses. 

2 Eeverend WiUiam Andrews, rector of St. George 's Church, reported 
to the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel on March 15, 1771, 
that "about 80 grown up persons" regularly attended his church. 

3 This was mostly previous to 1754. After the close of the Old 
Trench War few troops were stationed here. Jonathan Pearson. 

4 Daniel Campbell came to Schenectady in 1754, John Duncan ia 
1755, Alexander Campbell in 1762, while the later well-known firm of 
Phyn & EUice was in business in 1768. 



SCHENECTADY 



native land to take up their residence here because of 
the mercantile advantages offered. 

Commercially, Schenectady was admirably situated, 
for through it ran the Great Highway leading west- 
ward and here became navigable the Mohawk River, 

From its first settlement Schenectady had been pri- 
marily a trading community and early it became an 
important and flourishing town, a transfer point for 
the products of the West to be carried by wagon to 
Albany, or shipments of supplies from the older settle- 
ments to be borne westward by boat. 

'^ According to our conjecture," wrote^ Richard 
Smith, who visited Schenectady in 1769, ''the Town 
counts about 300 Dwelling Houses besides Out Houses, 
standing in 3 Principal Streets^ nearly East and 
West; these are crossed by 4 or 5 other Streets.'^ 
Few of the Buildings are contiguous," continues the 
Journal, "some of them are constructed in the old 
Dutch Taste^ generally of Wood but sometimes of 
Brick, and there may be 6 or 7 elegant Mansions'* 

e Richard Smith, A Tour of Four Great Eivers, p. 22. 

6 Front Street, Brewer's or Niskayuna (now Union) Street, and the 
old road to Albany (now Albany Street). 

7 The Vrooman map of 1768 shows streets corresponding to the 
following of today: Washington Avenue (then Lion, afterwards Wash- 
ington Street), Ferry Street, Church Street, Water Street, Mill Lane, 
Center Street, Jefferson Street, and North Street. 

8 The old Abraham Yates house, built about 1730, now No. 109 
Union Street, is an excellent example of the Dutch style of architecture. 

9 Possibly he refers to the old Campbell mansion, now standing on 
the northeast corner of State and Church Streets; the John Glen man- 
sion, now No. 58 Washington Avenue, or the old Ten Eyck mansion on 
the northeast corner of Governor's Lane and Front Street, at one time 
the residence of Governor Joseph C. Yates. These houses have all been 
remodeled. 



HISTORY OP SCHENECTADY 



without including a large Dutch Church^" with a Town 
Cloc, a Presbyterian Meeting House^^ and a neat 
English Church^" now finishing off, containing a par- 
ticular Pew for Sir William Johnson^^ adorned with a 
handsome Canopy supported by Pilasters. There 
are no Wharves but a public Landing or Two at 
the Ends of the Streets where the Batteaux bring the 
Peltry and wheat from above. These Batteaux which 
are built here" are very large, each end sharp so that 
they may be rowed either way. The townspeople 
are supplyed altogether with BeeP^ and Pork from 

10 The Dutch Eeformed Church, erected in 1734 and demolished in 
1814, stood on the site of the present church, the corner of Union and 
Church Streets. 

11 This seems to have been a rented ' ' meeting house ' ' the location 
of which cannot now be ascertained. It was not until October 12, 1769, 
that a lot was purchased for the erection of a permanent house of wor- 
ship. The b;;ilding, completed by the end of the year 1773, had a 
steeple and turret for a bell on which the members of St. George's 
looked with envious eyes, their church having neither. 

12 St. George's, the erection of which was commenced in 1759. 

13 Sir William not only personally contributed liberally to the fund 
for the erection of the church, but obtained many contributions from his 
friends throughout the Colonies. 

1* Boat building was for many years one of the principal industries 
of Schenectady, nearly all the boats used on the Mohawk being built 
here. The yards were along the river front extending from the present 
Scotia bridge to North Street. The batteaux were adopted as substi- 
tutes for the bark canoes, which were too light to bear the increasing 
loads of merchandise. They were built of white pine boards, and 
were from twenty to twenty-five feet long by three and a half wide in 
the center, capable of carrying from two to five tons. The batteaux 
were generally manned by three or four men and propelled by poles, 
with the auxiliary of ropes pulled by men on shore when being forced 
over the rapids in the river. Several batteaux generally traveled 
together so that the batteaumen could lend aid to one another. These 
batteaux were in general use until 1797, when, with the completion of 
the enterprise known as the Inland Lock Navigation Company, they 
gave way to the larger Durham boats. 

15 This sold at 5d. and 6d. per povmd. Eichard Smith. 



SCHENECTADY 



New England, most of the Meadows being used for 
Wheat, Peas and other Grain ; however there are cer- 
tain choice Grass Meadows about the Place and yet 
at the End we entered, the Sandy Pine Land 
approaches within 300 Yards of the Buildings." 

Jabez Maud Fisher, the son of a wealthy Philadel- 
phia shipowner, who came through Schenectady some 
four years later, places" the number of houses at four 
hundred. He makes special note of the 'Wast deal of 
fine Meadow and arable ground in the neighborhood," 
of the 'Wery considerable and profitable trade carried 
on with the Indians, ' ' and further adds that ' ' there are 
several 100 boats go from this place to Niagara" and 
some to Detroit^^ loaded with dry and wet goods." 

The town was surrounded by a stockade of upright 
pickets in the shape of a parallelogram having two 
gates, one opening to the east and one to the north.^® 
This stockade was flanked^" at intervals by redoubts 
or blockhouses and at the period of which we write 
enclosed'^ an area bounded on the north and west 

16 A manuscript copy of his journal is in the possession of the 
Herkimer County Historical Society. 

IT The route taken was up the Mohawk to near Fort Stanwix (Eome), 
where was a carry to the waters of Wood Creek; through Oneida Lake 
into the Oswego Eiver and to Oswego on Lake Ontario. From Oswego 
to Niagara the merchandise was sometimes conveyed in the same boats 
and sometimes in sloops. 

18 Eeverend William Andrews reported that his church was better 
attended in the winter than in the summer, for when the Mohawk was 
open several of his congregation who were Indian traders or batteaumen 
proceeded in their boats to "Fort Detroit and even to Mishillunackanac 
in sloop which [was] reckoned upward of 1000 miles from [Schenec- 
tady]." In making this trip a further carry was necessary around the 
falls at Niagara to Chippewa. 

19 The Sexagenary, p. 12. 

20 Documents Relating to the Colonial History of New York, X, 677. 

21 Jonathan Pearson, History of the Schenectady Patent, p. 306. 



HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



by the river, on the south by a line starting at the 
river and running twenty-eight feet south of State 
Street southeasterly to the present location of the 
New York Central depot, and on the east by a line 
from this point intersecting with the river at a point 
not far from the foot of North Street. 

In the center of an open space (two hundred and 
sixty-four by two hundred feet), at the junction of 
Front, Ferry and Green Streets, stood the fort, the 
south wall extending across Ferry Street three feet 
south of the north corner of the present rectory of 
St. George's Church.^^ This fort was erected in 
1735, and was built half of masonry and half of hewn 
timbers piled one upon the other above the masonry^^ 
to a height of twenty feet.^* It was capable of hold- 
ing from two to three hundred men.^^ The four cur- 
tains, which, by the way, contained no loopholes 
through which to fire the few cannon'^ of which the 
town boasted, were about seventy-six feet long each 
and the four bastions or blockhouses which stood at 
the corners were about twenty-four feet square." 
The fort was not encircled by a ditch, as was some- 
times customary, and its entrance was through a large 
swing gate raised like a drawbridge.^^ 

Both the stockades and the fort were, at the begin- 

22 Hid., p. 318. 

23 Documents Eelating to the Colonial History of New York, X, 677. 

24 Jonathan Pearson, History of the Schenectady Patent, p. 318, note. 

25 Documents Relating to the Colonial History of New York, X, 677. 

26 The two largest came to be known as the ' ' Lady Washington ' ' 
and the "Long Nine Pounder." These guns were placed in the streets 
so as to command the gates, Jonathan Pearson. 

2T Jonathan Pearson, History of the Schenectady Patent, p. 316. 

28 Documents Eelating to the Colonial History of New York, X, 677. 



SCHENECTADY 



ning of the Revolution, wholly out of repair,^® having 
been suffered to go into decay during the period of 
peace following the close of the French and Indian 
War. 

While it seems unbelievable that during the stirring 
times of 1776 any means of defense, however meager, 
would be deliberately removed, — unless, perhaps, it 
had reached such a stage of decay as to be rendered 
useless or in order that more adequate protection 
might replace it, — there is evidence^'' to show that 
during this year the *'01d Fort" was removed. 
Whether or not such was the case the writer cannot 
definitely ascertain, but he is rather inclined to hold 
the opinion^^ that the fort was permitted to remain 
until after the war. This opinion is based upon the 
statements'^ of certain soldiers who are quite positive 
in their assertions that the defenses of Schenectady 
included a fortress, which with the other works was 
guarded during the entire period of the war. 

The fact that on June 23, 1780, an act'^ was passed 
by the Legislature enabling the inhabitants of Sche- 

29 Documents Eelating to the Colonial History of New York, VIII, 
451. 

30 Jonathan Pearson, History of the Schenectady Patent, p. 318, note. 

31 This opinion is shared by Professor Pearson who, although he makes 
little point of it, states (History of the Schenectady Patent, p. 332) that 
"after the close of the Eevolutionary War the defenses of the village 
were never repaired, or renewed: — the old fort was removed and the 
land sold." 

32 <' This place [Schenectady] was surrounded with pickets and had 
a fortress and other works of defense which were guarded during the 
whole war." Pension Office Eecords, John Henry E 4891. 

"This place [Schenectady] was during [the] war surrounded with 
pickets and blockhouses and had a fortress and other works of defense 
were constantly erecting during [the] war." Pension Office Eecords, 
Bartholomew Clute S 12499. 

33 Public Papers of George Clinton, V, 886. 



10 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

nectady to erect a fortress does not preclude the pos- 
sibility of the old fort having been retained, for 
indeed the limited facilities for defense offered by 
this fort would quite justify the more extensive picket 
fort'* suggested by Governor Clinton, which was sub- 
sequently'^ erected. 

34 iMd. 

35 Work was probably started soon after the act was passed. There 
were on the east side of the picket fort (Pension Office Eecords, James 
Barhydt S 12948) seven redoubts (Pension Office Eecords, Wessel 
Cornu W 1029. Public Papers of George Clinton, VI, 715) which were 
used as guardhouses. Eighty-four men composed the guard, twelve 
being assigned to each redoubt (Pension Office Eecords, Wessel Cornu 
W 1029). 



CHAPTER III 

THE RISE OF THE REVOLUTIONARY 
MOVEMENT 

In conjunction with the wave of protest against 
the Stamp Act and other measures of Great Britain 
thought to be unconstitutional and oppressive, secret 
organizations known as the Sons of Liberty sprang 
up throughout the Colonies. It is interesting to note 
that those who afterward became Whig and Tory 
were equally instrumental in the forming of these 
bodies. At their inception, the tendencies of these 
associations were for the most part not revolution- 
ary. They "attempted no change of government, — 
only a preservation of the Constitution."^ 

In March, 1766, in compliance with a request from 
the New York Association, an organization of the 
Sons of Liberty was formed in Albany. While its 
members exhibited "the highest esteem of his most 
sacred Majesty, King George the Third, ' ' and swore to 
"bear true Allegiance to him and his Royal house 
forever," they nevertheless resolved that they would 
"Venture [their] Lives and fortunes. Effectually to 

1 Letter from the New York Sons of Liberty to the Albany Associa- 
tion, April 3, 1766, The American Historian and Quarterly Genealogical 
Record, No. 4, p. 148. 



12 BISTORT OF SCHENECTADY 

prevent the Stamp Act from Ever taking place in 
[the] City or Province."^ 

Following the organization of the Albany Sons 
of Liberty, their Committee of Correspondence 
dispatched the following letter^ to their friends in 
Schenectady : 

Gentlemen : 

Agreeable to the general sense of the Friends of Liberty 
over all the Colonies, and the particular instance of the Com- 
mittee at New York, we earnestly request You to advise with 
the respectable body of the Inhabitants of the Town of 
Schenectady, that they form themselves, after the example 
of their Brethren, and appoint a Committee for Regulations 
and Correspondence with us, and this, and the other Prov- 
inces as there may be occasion; and that as soon as formed 
You give us notice, that we may transmit to you the several 
Associations, and other papers of importance we have from 
them, and from time to time thro' them from the other 
Colonies. "We think You will readily conceive the necessity 
of this measure, when You consider how general it is thro' 
all the Colonies, and that the design is no more than the most 
effectual consolidation of the best of Systems, of which we 
can neither be too jealous nor too careful. 

(Signed) FREEDOM. 

By Order of the Committee of the Sons of 
Liberty in Albany, 

2 Constitution of tlie Albany Sons of Liberty. The American Histo- 
rian and Quarterly Genealogical Eecord, No. 4, p. 152. The original 
manuscript was at one time among the papers in the old Sanders House, 
Scotia. The writer has reason to believe that it is now in a private 
collection in Albany. 

3 The American Historian and Quarterly Genealogical Eecord, No. 4, 
p. 153. 



REVOLUTIONABT MOVEMENT 13 

While the original constitution of the Sons of Lib- 
erty of Albany subscribed to by ninety-four of its 
members is still in existence, together with several 
letters written by their Committee of Regulation 
and Correspondence, there is available not the least 
evidence to show that an organization was ever formed 
in Schenectady. 

As time went on differences of opinion arose regard- 
ing the controversy with the Mother Country, and 
by 1770 two parties, Whig and Loyalist, were fairly 
well defined, each with its political organization and 
each subdivided into liberals and conservatives. The 
contest at this time ''was not one between those who 
favored and those who opposed the acts of the Eng- 
lish government — for both parties opposed them — but 
was over the form which that opposition should 
take."* 

The Loyalist party helped to call the Continental 
Congress; although the proposal came first from the 
Sons of Liberty, the moderate Loyalist looked not 
unfavorably upon this body and even the extremists 
hoped for some good from it. 

The First Continental Congress, which met at 
Philadelphia on September 5, 1774, was merely a 
group of committees with no technical authority, 
assembled with the idea of advising with each other 
regarding the public welfare. It did not intentionally 
meet as a revolutionary body, yet as something like a 
state of war existed in part of the country, in the 
absence of any formally constituted government *'it 
took the reins ' ' and almost immediately, to the horror 

4 Alexander Clarence Flick, Loyalism in New York, p, 22, 



14 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



of the Loyalists, became the *' instrument for the 
promotion of revolution and independence."^ 

In proportion as Congress drifted toward radical- 
ism and assumed powers not delegated to it, it was 
opposed by the Loyalists and enthusiastically ap- 
plauded by the Sons of Liberty, who now became the 
chief supporters of the revolutionary movement. 

The Loyalists, while they were opposed to revolu- 
tion, were not satisfied with the pretensions of Par- 
liament. They believed it their duty to propose a 
solution of the problem and they did not believe that 
this solution could be effected through despotic com- 
mittees enforcing laws made at Philadelphia. Their 
opposition to Congress and its recommendations was 
soon felt in every section of New York. 

In the Mohawk Valley the esteem in which Sir 
William Johnson, His Majesty's Commissioner of 
Indian Affairs, was held, with his tact and good 
judgment, did much to hold the radical revolutionary 
element in check. In him was placed the confidence 
and faith of the people, and rightly, too, for Sir 
William had seen the clouds gathering and while he 
stood loyally by the King we have reason^ to believe 
that he saw justice in the demands of the colonists 
and that he was not entirely out of sympathy with 
their attitude. 

The Dutch of Schenectady, Whig sympathizers 
almost to a man, appear to have been quite content 
to sit on their ' ' stoops ' ' smoking their pipes in silence 

5 Ibid., p. 25. 

6 William L, Stone, The Life and Times of Sir William Johnson, 
Bart., II, 369. William W. Campbell, Annals of Tryon County, pp. 29-30. 



REVOLUTIONARY MOVEMENT 15 

and watch the course of events.^ The armed inter- 
ference of British soldiery had had no place in their 
lives; they were staunch friends of Sir William, for 
there were many who had served as officers under him 
in the Colonial Wars, and there was scarcely a Dutch 
family but that had been represented in his companies, 
while some had been honored with grants of land and 
others had held official positions under the Crown. 

Following the death of Sir William Johnson in 
July, 1774, affairs in the Valley underwent a decided 
change. Sir John Johnson,^ his son, came into pos- 
session of his estates and Colonel Guy Johnson,® his 
son-in-law, was appointed to succeed him as His 
Majesty's Superintendent of Indian Affairs. Neither 
Sir John nor Guy Johnson had the slightest sym- 
pathy^" with the cause of the Colonies, nor did either 
possess the tact of Sir William. From the first their 
actions were antagonistic rather than conciliatory. 

With the restraining influence of Sir William 
removed, the revolutionary movement rapidly gained 
adherents throughout the Valley. Although Colonel 

7 It is a matter of great regret that no source of information has 
been found available to warrant recording in more detail the trend of 
public opinion in Schenectady at this time. 

8 Sir John Johnson was born November 5, 1742, and died January 
4, 1830. He had spent considerable time in England and at the age 
of twenty-three had been knighted. On the death of Sir William he had 
refused to accept the office of Superintendent of Indian Affairs and this 
position had therefore been given to Colonel Guy Johnson. 

9 Colonel Guy Johnson was a nephew of Sir William. He had acted 
for some time as his private secretary and had married Mary, the 
younger of his uncle's two daughters. Colonel Johnson resided at Guy 
Park one mile and a half east of Fort Johnson, the mansion house 
having been built for him by Sir William in 1766. 

10 Both were of the aristocracy and felt only the wrongs of their own 
order. Douglas Campbell. 



16 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Johnson made every endeavor to check the rising tide 
of opposition to the British Crown, so rapidly did 
this opposition spring up that in one month after Sir 
William's death the Palatine patriots openly declared 
for Congress and soon the settlers in Canajoharie and 
German Flats were almost unanimous for 'Hhe 
undeniable privilege of being taxed only with their 
own consent. ' '" 

11 Minutes of the Tryon County Committee of Safety (first meeting), 
August 27, 1774. Tryon County was the first in New York to organize its 
committee. 



CHAPTER IV 

THE SCHENECTADY COMMITTEE OF 

SAFETY^ AND THE FIRST MILITIA 

COMPANIES 

The First Provincial Congress, a Whig body, called 
because the Loyalist assembly had refused to approve 
the acts of Congress, was the first revolutionary body 
in New York. Immediately this body assumed all 
governing powers and to it was intrusted the enforce- 
ment of the Articles of Association signed by the Con- 
tinental Congress on October 20, 1774. 

The necessity of further localizing the execution of 
orders given by the Provincial Congress soon called 
into being county, and under them district, committees. 

Although a Committee of Correspondence repre- 
senting Albany County was organized in November,^ 
1774, it does not appear that any unusual activities 
engaged the attention of this body until May of the 
following year, when in view of the various accounts 
that were received ''of the extraordinary commotions 
both in the Province of Massachusetts and at New 
York,"^ it was felt ''indispensably necessary" that 

1 These committees were quite as frequently knoM'n as Committees of 
Correspondence. 

2 A meeting, probably the first, was held on November 23. 

3 The Eecords of the Albany Committee of Safety. These records 
may be further cited as the source of subsequent matter in this chapter 
pertinent to the Albany Committee. 



18 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

the sense of the townspeople be taken as to what line 
of conduct should be pursued at that critical juncture. 
Under the direction of a subcommittee a meeting of 
the citizens was therefore called, and at this meeting, 
held on the afternoon of May 1, the following ques- 
tions were placed before the people : 

Are you willing to co-operate with our Brethren in New 
York, and the several Colonies on the Continent in their oppo- 
sition to the Ministerial Plan now prosecuting against us ? 

Are you willing to appoint Persons to be (conjointly with 
others to be appointed by the several Districts in this County) 
a Committee of Safety, Protection and Correspondence with 
full power to Transact all such matters as they shall conceive 
may tend to the weal of the American Cause ? 

Following an affirmative decision on the questions 
at issue, the meeting at once proceeded to elect their 
Committee of Safety. 

The matter of district committees seems to have 
been taken up almost immediately, and on May* 6 a 
meeting of the "freeholders and Inhabitants of the 
Township of Schenectady" was held, and as mem- 

4 The Records of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. The minutes 
covering the period from the first meeting until May 27, 1776, are to 
be found in the American Historian and Quarterly Genealogical Record, 
Vol. I, Nos. 1-4. These minutes form the source from which much of 
the material covering this period has been obtained. 

The American Historian and Quarterly Genealogical Record, "edited 
by the Historical Society" and published by Mr. E. Z. Carpenter under 
a Schenectady imprint, is now practically unknown. Indirectly, from 
the publisher, the writer has learned the history of this little magazine. 
There was no ' ' Historical Society ' ' as indicated on the title-page of the 
publication and Mr. Carpenter had no associates in the enterprise. He 
was sole editor, proprietor and printer, setting his own type and using 
a hand press which he still has. The numbers were given to friends as 
printed, and but seventy-five copies of each were issued. 



COMMITTEE OF SAFETY 19 

bers of a committee to represent their district were 
selected the following:^ 

Eeinier Mynderse, John Sanders, 

James Wilson, Abraham Oothout, 

Hugh Mitchell, Tobias Ten Eyck, 

Henry Glen, John Eoseboom, 

Harmanus Wendell, Christopher Yates. 

The committee chosen met for organization on the 
ninth, at the home*' of William White. Christopher 
Yates was elected chairman of the Board and Hugh 
Mitchell, clerk. John Sanders and Tobias Ten Eyck 
immediately refused to serve and their places were 
later^ filled by the election of Cornelius Cuyler and 
Jacobus Teller. 

The Schenectady Committee, organized as a sub- 
committee of that of Albany County,^ regularly sent 
delegates^ to its conferences. Soon it became the 
principaP" organ of local government with duties 
wide and important, for not only were its members 
to attend to the raising of such troops and funds as 

5 The revolutionary records of these men and of those residents of 
the Schenectady District subsequently referred to will be found in the 
Appendix, 

6 Where now stands the house known as No. 9 North Church Street. 
Subsequent meetings of the Committee were for some time held here. 

7 At a public meeting held on May 27. 

8 In Albany County eighteen districts elected one hundred and fifty- 
four members of the County Committee. Alexander Clarence Flick. 

9 The entire Schenectady Board attended the first meeting of the 
Albany Committee held after its organization. At subsequent meetings 
two members generally constituted the representation. 

10 While these bodies acted quite independently in minor matters, 
there was always a marked respect shown for orders or suggestions 
from higher authorities and matters of major importance were referred 
to them. 



20 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

should be required from the district, all details of 
military organization and later the regulation of 
prices to be charged for commodities, but they were 
also required to seize and secure all who were believed 
to hold sentiments unfriendly to the cause of the 
Colonies and, until the appointment of the Commis- 
sioners for the Detecting and Defeating of Conspira- 
cies," to act as judges in cases of the trials of persons 
charged with treason against the State. All expenses 
incurred by the Committee were chargeable to the 
County Committee, and membership in subsequent 
organizations was determined as in the first by popu- 
lar election, — the elections being held at intervals of 
six months and the chairman and clerk in each case 
selected by the Committee itself. 

It is interesting to note that the activities of the 
Schenectady Committee were not confined to inter- 
nal affairs alone. Much sympathy seems to have 
been evinced for their friends in New England, and 
in August (1775) Cornelius Cuyler was appointed to 
receive donation wheat for the poor of Boston, while 
by December 18, £73 N. Y. C. had been raised for 
their relief. It is interesting to note, too, the petty 
annoyances to which, during the early period of the 
war, members of the Committee were subjected by 
those politically opposed. There were constantly 
being brought before the Board at this time those who 
had spoken disparagingly of certain of its members, 
and on one occasion there was ordered to appear one 
George Ramsey who was strongly suspected of having 

11 Much detailed information regarding these boards may be found 
in the Introduction to the Minutes of the Commissioners for Detecting 
and Defeating Conspiracies in the State of New York, and in Loyalism 
in New York. 



COMMITTEE OF SAFETY 21 



been concerned in putting tar and feathers on several 
of their doors the night before. 

On May 24 the first measures looking toward the 
defense of the township were taken, for at the meet- 
ing of the Committee of Safety on that day it was 
voted^^ to purchase three hundred and thirty-eight 
pounds of powder, then in the possession of Daniel 
Campbell and stored in Albany, at three shillings per 
pound, and to immediately post ''advertisements" in 
the most public places calling a meeting of the inhabi- 
tants on the twenty-seventh for the purpose of 
informing the Board how they were provided with 
arms and ammunition. 

At the public meeting on the twenty-seventh it was 
unanimously agreed to accept a resolution passed by 
the Committee the day previous, calling for the rais- 
ing of three companies of minute men," two in the 
town and one in the Westina" — each company to con- 
sist of one captain, two lieutenants, four sergeants, 
three corporals, a drum, and fifty privates, and the 

12 This action was taken for fear ' ' of the evil Consequences that 
[might] attend [its] falling in the hands of [their] Enemys. " A 
subsequent resolution of the Committee appointed John Post and John 
G. Lansing custodians of this powder and empowered them to sell it to 
any of the inhabitants of the township at a price of ' ' 3s. 9d. per pound, 
3s. lOd. by the half pound, 4s. by the quarter." No powder was, how- 
ever, to be disposed of outside the district without an order from the 
Committee. 

13 Under the militia law of July 18, 1775, it was designated that one 
fourth part of the militia of every county was to consist of minute men 
who were "to be ready on the shortest Notice to march to any Place 
when their Assistance [was] required for the Defense of their own or 
a neighboring Colony," 

1* The Westina (Woestyne), or the Wilderness, seems to have applied 
alike to the land on the north side of the Mohawk now known as Glen- 
ville and to the land lying opposite on the south side now known as 
Eotterdam. 



22 



HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



First Company, 



meeting further requested that the Committee appoint 
the officers for these companies. 

The Committee consented to act upon the request 
of the meeting and the following selection was at 
once made; 

Captain, Jellis J. Fonda. 

First lieutenant, Andrew Van 

Patten. 
Second lieutenant, Myndert A. 

Wemple. 

{Captain, Cornelius Van Dyck. 
First lieutenant, John Mynderse. 
Second lieutenant, Gerrit Veeder. 

Captain, John Van Patten. 

First lieutenant, Cornelius Van 

Slyck. 
Second lieutenant, Myndert R. 

Wemple. 



Third Company, 



CHAPTER V 

SCHENECTADY RAISES A COMPANY FOR 
THE DEFENSE OF TICONDEROGA 

Ethan Allen, with his one hundred and fifty undis- 
ciplined troops known as the "Green Mountain 
Boys," had taken possession of Fort Ticonderoga on 
May 10, and on the next day Crown Point had been 
occupied by another detachment under Seth Warner. 
These unexpected victories had given great impetus 
to the American cause. Albany at once dispatched 
two companies to the forts to assist in retaining pos- 
session of the large number of cannon and other mili- 
tary stores that had been captured, and on the twenty- 
ninth, in consequence of a request from the Committee 
of Safety at Albany, the Schenectady Committee voted 
to raise one company^ for service at Ticonderoga. 

1 The scale of pay allowed for the services of the men enlisting was 
as follows: 

£ s. d. 

Captain, per month 6 

Lieutenant, per month .... 4 

Ensign, per month 3 

Sergeant, per month 2 8 " All Lawf ull money 

Corporal, per month 2 4 of New England. ' ' 

Drummer, per month 2 4 

Fifer, per month 2 4 

Private, per month 2 

Each soldier enlisting was required to sign "the association recom- 
mended by the Honorable, the Continental Congress." 



24 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

To Cornelius Van Dyck was given the command of 
this company and the authority^ for making the nec- 
essary enlistments. Benjamin Hilton was appointed 
lieutenant and Cornelius Van Slyck ensign. Hilton at 
once refused to serve and Van Slyck was therefore 
promoted to take his place, while the vacancy was 
filled by the appointment of John Gr. Lansing as 
ensign. 

On the day following the one on which it was voted 
to raise the company the Committee at Schenectady 
reported^ to the Albany Committee that although they 
had been successful in raising a few men they were 
without arms with which to equip them. To this letter 
the Albany Committee replied* that they were well 
pleased with the readiness shown in raising men for 
* ' the new intended Continental Service, ' ' and they fur- 
ther expressed the hope that the Committee would 
have a company ''in compleat order ready for march- 
ing on the first Notice," adding that a quantity of 
arms then under "Reparation" would be in good 
order in two or three days and that with these "such 
of the Forces of the County as [should] first go up 
[would] be supplied." 

The men as enlisted were boarded^ about town and 
to each recruit was given a ribbon,® evidently to 

2 His commission from the Provincial Congress, together with the 
commissions of the other officers of his company, was given on July 6. 

3 The Eecords of the Albany Committee of Safety, May 31, 1775. 
4 Ihid. 

5 Those first enlisting were boarded at the houses of John Welsh and 
Eobert Martin, who were paid "at the rate of one shilling, N. Y. Cur- 
rency, per day, per man," for their board and lodging. 

6 On December 20, 1775, the Committee authorized a payment of 
seventeen shillings to John Eoseboom "for Eibbons bought for Captain 
Van Dyck 's Eecruits. ' ' 



THE DEFENSE OF TICONDEROGA 25 

denote, in lieu of a uniform, that the wearer was a 
soldier in the Continental service. 

On June' 9, word was received from the Albany 
Committee that it would be some little time before 
the company would be called upon for service. The 
Committee, moved perhaps by a desire to economize, 
certainly by no sense of justice, the more so as they 
further decreed that the members of the company 
should be required to spend two days each week in 
learning the military exercise, resolved that the men 
who had already enlisted be allowed neither provision 
nor billeting money until their services were required 
and that those to whom the arrangements were unsat- 
isfactory should be paid off and discharged. 

It was not until June^ 17 that the commissary at 
Albany was authorized to issue fifty guns for the use 
of Captain Van Dyck's company, and it would appear 
from an original enlistment rolP still extant that it 
was not until the receipt of this equipment that Cap- 
tain Van Dyck really endeavored to secure a full quota 
for his company. 

Enlistments, however, were slow, as between June 
19 and August 7 the names of but thirty-two men were 
secured, each in his turn volunteering "to preserve, 
if possible, the just liberties of America and to keep 
and defend the important Port of Ticandaroga in con- 
junction with [their] brethren of New England," and 
at the same time promising ''by the ties of religion, 
honor and love of [their] country to obey such orders 

7 On June 7 the Albany Committee seriously debated the advisability 
of disbanding the few soldiers already enlisted, but finally resolved that 
the company be continued. 

8 The Eeeords of the Albany Committee of Safety. 

9 This roll is in the possession of the writer. 



26 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

as the Capt. [should] from time to time direct and 
command. ' "^ 

On July 13 orders were finally received for the 
company to march to Lake George/^ Both Captain 
Van Dyck and Lieutenant Van Slyck were absent 
from town recruiting at the time the instructions were 
received and the Committee therefore decided to order 
the company to march on the morrow under the com- 
mand of Lieutenant Lansing.^- Upon being drawn up 
and acquainted with the resolve of the Committee, the 
men absolutely refused to march save under the com- 
mand of their captain, and as the only means of solving 
the problem ''an express" was immediately ordered 
dispatched requesting Captain Van Dyck to return at 
once, while to General Schuyler^^ was sent a letter 
advising him of the reason for the delay. 

10 So reads the enlistment roll. 

11 On June 22 the Committee furnished twenty wagons ' ' on the public 
credit" to carry provisions to this place. 

12 On July 10 he had been recommended to the Provincial Congress 
to fill the position of first lieutenant in the recruiting service. 

13 He was in command of the Northern Department. 



CHAPTER VI 

THE CONTINENTAL LINE, THE MILITIA AND 
THE OEGANIZATION OF THE SCHE- 
NECTADY BATTALION 

On June 28, 1775, under a resolution of the Pro- 
vincial Congress, was formed the New York Continen- 
tal Line, consisting of four regiments of infantry and 
one company of artillery. 

Philip Schuyler had already been appointed to the 
command of the Northern Department of New York, 
and Washington had taken command of the disorgan- 
ized forces around Boston. 

On the formation of the Continental Line many of 
the men throughout the Valley hastened at once to 
enlist. So short, however, was the term of enlistment 
(six months) and so scattered and inadequate are the 
records that it is impossible to trace either the names 
or the service performed by these early patriots. 

To supplement the regular army, provision was 
made for the raising of state militia, and as it is in con- 
nection with the militia that we shall record the major 
part of the war activities performed by the men of 
Schenectady, some consideration^ of this branch of the 
service may not be without interest. 

1 The material used in this connection is based for the most part 
upon statements of Schenectady soldiers found in the records of the 
Pension Office. 



28 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

In the matter of recruiting, the names of the able- 
bodied men were (with few exceptions) enrolled in 
their respective localities, and from the lists so com- 
piled companies were formed. Service was generally 
by draft, and members of any one company, except 
where the whole regiment was called out, rarely 
served under the officers of the company to which they 
belonged; both privates and officers being selected by 
ballot, some from one company, others from another, 
whenever called upon to take part in any tour or 
expedition. On such expeditions a detachment of 
militia was generally placed under the command of 
but one officer and when the detachment was small such 
an officer was not always a commissioned one.^ 

When a detachment of militia left home the men 
were required to provide themselves with a given 
number of days ' provisions. Those who were too poor 
thus to provide themselves drew provisions from the 
quartermaster, commissary or other proper officer 
nearest to their place of residence. When stationed 
at posts and garrisons where there were Continental 
stores, the militia drew rations from these stores ; but 
when there were no such stores at hand, as for instance 
when they were engaged in ranging the woods or 
serving in scouting expeditions, they obtained provi- 
sions as and wherever they could find them, being on 
such occasions furnished with authority to do so.^ 

The duties required of the militia were varied. 

2 Pension Office Records, Daniel Kittle W 21528. Pension Office 
Eecords, William Corl W 22736. 

3 Permission to purchase seems first to have been asked, but in cases 
of refusal provisions were taken by force. James Barhydt mentions 
(Pension Office Eecords S 12948) an instance which happened on a cer- 
tain expedition to Harpersfield. A man refused to give up a sheep 
required for the detail, whereupon it was confiscated, and the man later 



TEE SCHENECTADY BATTALION 29 

They acted as guards for Tory prisoners or supplies 
in transportation, served to apprehend Tories, or in 
reliefs on the frontier and at the option of their offi- 
cers could be called upon to perform either garrison, 
field or fatigue duty.* They were not, however, 
required to serve outside the State, and periods for 
which they were drafted were usually of short dura- 
tion, although the militia were liable for and often 
performed more extended duties.^ Active service 
over, the men returned to their homes, to take up 
again their daily occupations — no note in most cases 
made of the part they played and all record of 
individual service forever lost. 

Upon the militia little reliance was placed by the 
staff officers of the regular army and this not without 
some justification. The average militiaman was 
arrogant, insolent and for the most part totally 
devoid of any idea of discipline. He knew his rights 
and quite freely asserted them. At a critical point in 
a campaign he would not infrequently return home to 
harvest his crops and quite as frequently flatly refuse 
to serve when ordered out on an alarm. 

This attitude on the part of the militiamen should 
not be too severely condemned nor must it be assumed 
that their grievances were without foundation. Their 
pay was small and difficult to obtain when earned; 
food and clothing were equally scarce; much was 
expected of them and a distant alarm often meant 

sent to Hartford a prisoner, having been found guilty of disaffection 
upon trial by the Committee at Schenectady, 

4 Pension Ofl&ce Records, Simon J. Van Antwerp S 28924. 

5 When the tours were of long duration three or four draftings often 
took place, one squad relieving another. Pension Office Records, Daniel 
Kittle W 21528. 



30 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

leaving their mves and children exposed to the raids 
of the enemy. 

It will be a matter of interest to note in the follow- 
ing pages that although on several occasions the men 
of Schenectady displayed much the same attitude 
as the ''average militiaman," much more frequently 
they answered the call to arms with alacrity and per- 
formed services which are justly commendable. 

On September 2, 1775, agreeable to a request from 
the Committee of Safety, a meeting of all the militia 
of the town of Schenectady was held at the Dutch 
Church for the purpose of forming companies in 
accordance with the plans of the Continental and Pro- 
vincial Congresses.® 

At this meeting the three companies already formed 
were reorganized and two additional companies raised. 
Jellis J. Fonda'^ and John Van Patten^ were retained 

6 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

1 Captain Fonda served until the end of the war. The other officers 
in his company were: 

First lieutenant, Andrew Van Patten. Eeappointed June 20, 1778. 

Second lieutenant, Myndert A. Wemple. Eeappointed June 20, 1778. 
Promoted to rank of first lieutenant February 25, 1780, and assigned 
to Captain Mynderse's company. His office was filled by the promotion 
of Nicholas Yates. 

Ensign, Nicholas Yates. Eeappointed June 20, 1778, and promoted 
to the rank of second lieutenant February 25, 1780. His office was filled 
by the appointment of Lawrence Vrooman. 

8 Captain Van Patten resigned his commission toward the close of 
the war. The other officers in his company were: 

First lieutenant, Cornelius Mebie. The name of Teunis Swart appears 
as holding this office June 20, 1778. 

Second lieutenant, Simon F. Van Patten. The name of Philip Vedder 
appears as holding this office June 20, 1778. 

Ensign, Daniel Toll. Eeappointed June 20, 1778. 

This company was recruited in the Westina and during the war this 
section, an especially exposed one, was constantly patrolled by its mem- 
bers. This company also garrisoned the dwelling-house of Teunia 



V 



THE SCHENECTADY BATTALION 31 

as captains ; John Mynderse,® who had originally been 
selected as a lieutenant in Captain Van Dyck's com- 
pany, was promoted to the rank of captain; and to 
the command of the new companies were elected 
Abraham Wemple^" and Thomas Wasson." 

Swart, who on June 20, 1778, was serving as a lieutenant under Captain 
Van Patten. His house was located about four and a half miles above 
Schenectady on the north side of the river almost on its bank; it was 
built of brick, was picketed in and had as an armament a small field 
piece fixed in a porthole and a quantity of small arms, and it was to 
this "fort" that the inhabitants were accustomed to resort for pro- 
tection in case of alarms. There were undoubtedly a great many of 
these so-called forts, i.e., dwelling-houses in which some means of 
defense was provided, scattered throughout this section. One that is 
well remembered by many of the older generation as being a supposed 
relic of the Eevolutionary period was the "Old Fort" located in Scotia, 
a few hundred feet north of the present Vley Eoad, at a point about 
the same distance west of Halcyon Street. A few years ago the foun- 
dations of what was supposedly a watch- or blockhouse were unearthed 
near the river at the ' ' Hoek ' ' not far from Ulrich 's. In the space 
included by the foundations were found many cannon balls. 

9 Captain Mynderse served until the end of the war. The other offi- 
cers in his company were: 

First lieutenant, Gerrit N. Veeder. He entered the Continental ser- 
vice as a captain in the spring of 1776. The ofl&ce was held by Lawrence 
Mynderse June 20, 1778, and by Myndert A. Wemple February 25, 1780. 

Second lieutenant, Solomon Pendleton. He entered the Continental 
service some time before October, 1777. On June 20, 1778, the office 
was held by James H. or Jacobus Peek. 

Ensign, Lawrence Mynderse. On his promotion to the rank of first 
lieutenant the office was filled by the appointment of Abraham Truax. 

10 Abraham Wemple was subsequently commissioned colonel. The 
other officers appointed for his company were: 

First lieutenant, Thomas Brower Banker, subsequently commissioned 
captain. 

Second lieutenant, Abraham Swits, subsequently commissioned first 
major. 

Ensign, John B. Vrooman, subsequently commissioned first lieutenant. 

11 Captain Wasson served until the end of the war. The other officers 
in his company were: 

First lieutenant, John Little. John Thornton was promoted to fill 
this office on February 25, 1780, Little having removed from the beat. 



32 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

The companies of Captains Fonda and Mynderse 
retained their classification as minute men and as 
such served imtil the spring of 1777, when they were 
incorporated with the regular militia. The motto of 
these companies as noted on their flags was ''Liberty 
or Death," and because of the color of the uniforms 
worn by their members Captain Mynderse 's company 
was known as ''The Blues" and Captain Fonda's as 
"The Greens. "'' 

At the direction of Congress commissions as field 
officers of the Schenectady militia (later known as the 
2d Albany County) were, on October 20, issued as 
follows :^^ 

Colonel, Abraham Wemple." 
Lieutenant-colonel, Jacob Schermerhorn.^^ 
First major, Abraham Swits.^^ 
Second major, Nicholas P. Veeder." 

Second lieutenant, John Thornton. Promoted to rank of first lieu- 
tenant, February 25, 1780, and his office filled by the appointment of 
William Moore. 

Ensign, Jacob Sullivan. Alexander Crawford "was appointed to fill 
this office on February 25, 1780, Sullivan having died. 

Captain Wasson's company was recruited at Currybush, now the 
town of Princetown. On June 12, 1776, the Committees at Schoharie 
and Schenectady ' ' prayed the advice ' ' of the Albany Committee as to 
whether this company should belong to the Schenectady battalion or 
to that of Schoharie. It was decided that it should remain a part of 
the Schenectady regiment. 

12 Pension Office Eecords, Jellis J. Fonda. 

13 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

1* He held this office until near the close of the war, when he resigned 
and Abraham Oothout was promoted to fill his place. 

15 He refused to accept the commission and on January 13, 1776, 
Christopher Yates was appointed in his stead. 

16 He held this office until the close of the war. 

17 He refused to accept the commission and on January 13, 1776, 
Myndert M. Wemple was appointed in his stead. 



TEE SCHENECTADY BATTALION 



33 



First Company, 



Adjutant, Aaron N. Van Patten/* 
Quartermaster, John Peek/® 

At a meeting of the Schenectady Committee on 
January 26, 1776, it was voted to prepare a list of 
all the male inhabitants not already in the militia, in 
order to organize further companies. Following the 
preparation of the list those whose names appeared on 
it were required to meet on February 10 for organi- 
zation and to choose their officers. 

Three companies were thus formed and subse- 
quently the following officers were chosen :-° 

Captain, Thomas Brower Banker. 
First lieutenant, John B. Vroo- 

man. 
Second lieutenant, Aaron S. Ved- 

der. 
Ensign, Benjamin Young.^^ 
Captain, Henry Glen." 
First lieutenant, John B. Mar- 

selis.^^ 
Second lieutenant, Nicholas Bar- 

hydt. 
Ensign, Cornehus Z. Van Sant- 

voord; 

18 He refused to accept the commission and on February 10, 1776, 
John Van Driesen was appointed in his stead. 

19 He resigned his commission on December 9, and on January 13, 
1776, John Post was appointed in his stead. 

20 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

21 The name of Freeman Schermerhorn appears as holding this office, 
June 20, 1778. 

22 He probably did not serve actively as captain. Jacob Schermerhorn 
was also elected to the office but refused to serve, and at a subsequent 
meeting of the company the captaincy was voted to Abraham Oothout. 

23 He served as first lieutenant untU August, 1776, when he was 



Second Company, 



34 



HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



Third Company, 



Captain, Ahasueras Marselis.^* 

First lieutenant, Jesse Van 
Slyck.'^ 

Second lieutenant, William Stev- 
ens. 

Ensign, Abraham Van Eps.^® 

transferred to Bradt 's Eangers and the office filled by the appointment of 
John Roseboom. 

24 He probably did not serve actively as captain. 

25 He was promoted to the rank of captain. The other officers of his 
company recorded as of June 20, 1778, were as follows: 

First lieutenant, Walter Jacob Vrooman. 
Second lieutenant, Francis Vedder. 
Ensign, Jellis Abraham Fonda. 

26 He was appointed a captain some time previous to the summer 
of 1777. The other officers of his company recorded as of June 20, 
1778, were as follows: 

First lieutenant, Jellis Yates. 
Second lieutenant, Philip Van Vorst, Jr. 

Ensign, Aaron I. Van Antwerpen. The name of John Vedder appears 
as holding this office, February 25, 1780. 



CHAPTER VII 

THE INDIANS. RUMORS REGARDING THE 
JOHNSONS AND COLONEL GUY'S SUB- 
SEQUENT DEPARTURE FROM THE 
VALLEY 

Both the colonists and the Mother Country had 
been quick to realize the important part to be played 
by the Confederacy of the Six Nations^ should their 
differences lead to a clash of arms. As early as 
1774 efforts were made in behalf of the colonists, 
through the Stockbridge Indians, to secure the sym- 
pathies of the Mohawks, while to Reverend Samuel 
Kirkland^ was intrusted the matter of winning^ over 
the Oneidas. In behalf of England Colonel Johnson, 
acting under orders, had sought to hamper the work 

1 Their number in 1773 is estimated as twelve thousand five hun- 
dred. (Unnamed authority. Quoted United States Census. 1890.) 

2 He was born at Norwich, Connecticut, December 1, 1741, and died 
February 28, 1808. In 1764, with the approval of Sir William Johnson, 
he took up his residence among the Senecas as a missionary and in 
1766 settled at Oneida. He performed valuable services as an inter- 
preter, acted as a chaplain in the army during the Eevolution and in 
1793 founded Hamilton-Oneida Academy, the germ of Hamilton College. 

3 On June 23, 1775, Kirkland appeared before the Schenectady Com- 
mittee with five Oneida Indians and requested that some mem- 
ber of the Board accompany them to Albany, whither they were bound. 
John Eoseboom was appointed for this service and on the return of 
the Indians to Schenectady a few days later the Committee voted to 
give them some presents to show their "friendly disposition" and to 
entertain them while in town at the house of William White. 



36 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



of Kirkland and to retain the friendship of the 
Indians. 

Scarcely had the Committee of Safety at Schenec- 
tady been formed when rumors* began to be freely 
circulated to the effect that Colonel Johnson, in abuse 
of his office as Indian Superintendent, was desirous 
of bringing about an Indian uprising with a view of 
'* cutting off" those who opposed him and that he was 
laying plans to this end. 

So persistent Avere these rumors that Colonel John- 
son, fearing the consequences were he to permit them 
to go unrefuted, placed^ the matter before the Sche- 
nectady Committee on May^ 18, thus stating his 
position : 

Gentlemen: We have, for some days past, heard of many 
threats from the public, that give us reason to apprehend 
that the persons or properties of gentlemen of the first conse- 
quence, both with respect to station and property, would 
have been insulted in this county, and myself in particular, 

4 On May 20 the Committee received a letter stating that the bearer 
"had heard Colonel Guy Johnson desire some Indians to rise in arms and 
Cut off the Inhabitants" and on the twenty-second it was reported 
on good authority that one Mr. Fletcher, a schoolmaster in the town, 
had said that Colonel Johnson "would come down the river with five 
thousand Indians and cut [them] all off" and that he had further 
stated ' ' that it would be right and if he had it in his Power he would do 
the same for [they] were all rebels." Mr, Fletcher seems to have very 
wisely left town after indulging in these remarks, as he could not later 
be located by the Committee. 

5 Jeptha E. Simms, Frontiersmen of New York, I, 494. 

6 On May 20, Colonel Johnson dispatched a second letter to the Com- 
mittees of Albany and Schenectady representing the danger he believed 
himself to be in of being seized and imprisoned "either by the New 
Englanders or some persons in or about the city of Albany or town of 
Schenectady," as the result of the "ridiculous and malicious report 
that [he] intend [ed] to make the Indians destroy the inhabitants." 
William L. Stone, Life of Joseph Brant, I, 67-69. 



TEE INDIANS 37 



under color of a gross and notorious falsehood, uttered by 
some worthless scoundrels, respecting my intentions as 
Superintendent of Indian affairs. To gentlemen of sense 
and moderation these malicious, ill-founded charges ought 
to be self-evidently false, as my duty is to promote peace, 
and my office of the highest importance to the trade and 
frontiers ; but as these reports are daily increasing, it becomes 
me, both as a subject and a man, to disavow them, and until 
I can find out and chastise the infamous author, to assure 
the public of their mistake, and to acquaint them that it has 
rendered it my duty for self-preservation, so necessary, that 
I have taken precaution to give a very hot and disagreeable 
reception to any persons who shall invade my retreat; at the 
same time I have no intention to disturb those who choose to 
permit me the honest exercise of my reason and the duties of 
my office; and requesting that you will immediately cause 
this to be made public to the Albany Committee. 
I remain, Gent'n, your very humble serv't, 

G. JOHNSON. 

Much, however, as Colonel Johnson sought to check 
it, the current of opinion continued to increase in 
its hostility to him. The gossip of the day abounded 
in stories, false or otherwise, circulated for the bene- 
fit of one side or the other. One, to the effect that 
the person of Colonel Johnson was in danger of being 
seized and their supply of powder thereby cut off, 
evidently spread with a view of inciting the Indians 
against the colonists, so well succeeded in its purpose 
that on May 20 Little Abram, a chief of the Lower 
Castle of Mohawks, in behalf of the Indians, thus 
appealed^ to the magistrates and committees at 
Albany and Schenectady: 

7 The original of the speech as interpreted by Reverend Samuel 
Kirkland is to be found among the Trumbull Papers in the possession 
of the Massachusetts Historical Society, XXVII, 243. 



38 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Brothers — 

Our present situation is very disagreeable and alarming, 
what we never expected, therefore desire to know what is 
designed by the reports that are spread amongst us. We hear 
that Companies and Troops are coming from one quarter to 
another to molest us, Particularly from New England to 
apprehend and take away by Violence our Superintendent 
and extinguish our Council Fire, for what reason we know 
not — 

Brothers — 

We desire you would inform us, if you know of any such 
design on foot either by the New England People or in your 
Vicinity and not deceive us in this Matter for the Conse- 
quences will be important and extensive — 

Brothers — 

We shall support and defend our Superintendent and not 
see our Council Fire extinguished — 

We have no Inclination or purpose of interfering in the 
Dispute between Old England and Boston; the white 
People may settle their own Quarrels between themselves; 
we shall never meddle in those matters, or be the Aggres- 
sors, if we are let alone. We have for a long time lived in 
peace with one another and due wish ever to continue so. 
But should our Superintendent be taken from us, we dread 
the Consequences, the whole Confederacy would resist it, 
and all their Allies, and as reports now are, we should not 
know where to find our Enemies; the innocent might fall 
with the Guilty. We are so desirous of maintaining Peace 
that we are unwilling the Six Nations should know the bad 
Report spread amongst us & threats given out — 

Brothers — 

We desire you will satisfy us as to your knowledge of the 
foundation of those reports, and what your News are and 
not Deceive us in a matter of so much Importance — 

Signed Abram Chief. 



THE INDIANS 39 



In answer to the appeal of Little Abram, at a con- 
ference of the Indians called at Guy Park on May 25, 
a committee* composed of delegates from Albany and 
Tryon^ counties declared'" to the Indians in the pres- 
ence of Colonel Johnson that the reports concerning 
intended harm to their superintendent were false. 
They declared further that they hoped the report in 
regard to the powder was false also, and assured the 
Indians that on their return they would inform their 
'*old and wise men" of the report and use every 
endeavor, if it were so, to prevent any recurrence in 
the future. 

The Indians on their part again expressed them- 
selves as being peaceably disposed toward the inhabi- 
tants, but made it quite plain that if their supplies of 
powder which they obtained from their superintendent 
were cut off, they would surely distrust them. 

The Indians who attended the conference were 
mostly Mohawks, and as the Western Indians who 
were invited to attend were not represented, the coun- 
cil was soon adjourned with a view of meeting later 
at Crosby's Manor near German Flats. This coun- 
cil was never held. Colonel Johnson remained but a 
short time at Crosby's Manor and then proceeded 
westward to Fort Stanwix," accompanied not only 

8 Christopher Yates and John Eoseboom were appointed to represent 
the Schenectady Committee. 

9 Tryon County was taken from Albany County in 1772 and named in 
honor of William Tryon, then governor of the province. It included 
all the colonial settlements west and southwest of Schenectady, and was 
divided into five districts, — Mohawk, Canajoharie, Palatine, German 
Flats and Kingsland. 

10 Trumbull Papers, XXVII, 246. 

11 This fort, begun in 1758 by Brigadier-General John Stanwix of 
the British Army, was situated within the boundaries of the present vil- 



40 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

by Ms family and some five hundred retainers who 
had left Guy Park with him, but also by a large body 
of Mohawk Indians from the Upper Castle. The stay 
at Fort Stanwix was but a brief one, Colonel John- 
son and his followers proceeding almost at once to 
Ontario, where a council of the Western Indians was 
convened. 

Thus far no act of open hostility had been com- 
mitted by Colonel Johnson, although his movements 
were viewed with the greatest suspicion by the 
settlers. While the council was being held at Ontario 
the whole Valley was again thrown into alarm by 
rumors that reached the Tryon County Committee on 
good authority that ''Col. [Gruy] Johnson was ready 
with eight or nine hundred Indians to make an inva- 
sion of the Country, that the Indians were to be under 
the Command of Joseph Brant^^ and Walter Butler" 
and that they were to fall on the inhabitants below 
the little falls in order to divide the people in two 
parts. "^* 

The cause for this alarm seemed the more real as 
Sir John Johnson still remained at Johnstown, sur- 
rounded by a large body of loyal followers. 

lage of Eome, N. Y. It was occupied in June, 1776, by Colonel Ellas 
Dayton and at this time the name was changed to Fort Schuyler. 

12 Joseph Brant (Thayendanegea), a full-blooded Mohawk of the Bear 
clan, was bom in 1742 and died November 24, 1807. He was a brother- 
in-law of Sir William Johnson, Sir William having married his sister 
Molly. Early he became an active Loyalist and later rendered valuable 
services to the British Government, under which he held a colonel's 
commission. 

13 The celebrated Tory of the Valley, whose oft-mentioned deeds of 
cruelty render his name abhorred to this day. 

1* Letter from the Tryon County Committee to the Committees at 
Albany and Schenectady, July 13, 1775. Washington Papers, Library 
of Congress. 



TEE INDIANS 41 



The Tryon County Committee wrote^^ to the Albany 
and Schenectady Committees on July 13, placing the 
matter before them, stating that they had every 
reason to believe the reports true, and further that 
they feared that all their enemies in the county would 
appear in arms as soon as the Indians approached. 
''Our ammunition is so scant," continued the letter, 
''that we cannot furnish three hundred men so as to 
be able to make a stand against so great a number. 
In these deplorable circumstances we look to you for 
Assistance both in men and ammunition to save this 
County from slaughter and desolation." 

It will be remembered that Captain Van Dyck's 
company was on July 13 under orders to march to 
Lake George. 

Immediately upon its receipt the letter from the 
Tryon County Committee had been forwarded^® by 
the Schenectady Committee (who first received it) 
to the Committee at Albany who at once dispatched 
it by " an express ' ' to General Schuyler, who was then 
at Saratoga, with the suggestion" that if he thought 
it advisable he should countermand his former orders 
and permit the company to march to the relief of 
their friends to the westward. 

On the fourteenth General Schuyler's answer was 
received. "The letter you have enclosed," it read,^^ 
"is of a truly alarming nature and requires the most 
immediate and vigorous efforts to counteract the 
meditated evil, And I would advise that not only Capt. 
Van Dyck and his company but also such others as 

15 Hid. 

16 The Eecords of the Albany Committee of Safety. 

17 Hid. 

18 Ihid. 



42 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

you can possibly get should immediately March into 
Tryon County with the Albany and Schenectady 
Militia who should also be requested to march to the 
relief of that County. You will please to supply Capt. 
Van Dyck's Company with ammunitions^ and send all 
you can spare to the Inhabitants of Tryon County." 
Whatever may have been the plan of the Johnsons, 
the one feared was not carried out. Colonel Guy 
returned to Oswego from Ontario, succeeded in win- 
ning a few more Indians to the British cause, and 
then proceeded with his followers to Canada 

19 The Albany Committee had but three hundred pounds of powder 
in store. Of this they sent one hundred and fifty pounds to the Tryon 
County Committee, charging them for it at the rate of five shillings per 
pound, and twenty-five pounds to the Committee at Schenectady for the 
use of Captain Van Dyck's company. (The Eecords of the Albany 
Committee of Safety.) The Schenectady Committee was without powder 
(iMd.) but forwarded three hundred pounds of lead at forty shillings 
($5) per cwt. (The Minutes of the Tryon County Committee of Safety, 
July 15, 1775.) 



CHAPTEE VIII 

EFFORTS ON THE PART OF THE COLONISTS 
TO HOLD THE INDIANS IN A POSITION 
OF NEUTRALITY AND THE FRIC- 
TION WITH SIR JOHN 
JOHNSON 

To counteract the influence of Colonel Johnson, 
the Tryon County Committee, on June 29, met with 
the sachems of the Oneida and Tuscarora tribes. At 
this meeting^ were present delegates from Albany 
and Schenectady^ and in the chair was Nicholas 
Herkimer. Mutual speeches^ were made, friendship 
and confidence with the two nations renewed, with a 
promise from the latter, if possible, to bring the rest 
of the Six Nations to unite with them in measures of 
peace.* 

The Indians expressed themselves as greatly 
pleased with the kindness and generosity manifested 
toward them and recommended that ''the gate of 
Fort Stanwix be shut, that nothing might pass or 

1 This was a "Meeting Extraordinary" of the Committee held at 
the house of Frederick Bellinger in the German Flats District. 

2 Hugh Mitchell and Abraham Oothout. 

3 Some of the speeches may be found in Stone 's Life of Joseph Brant 
and Campbell's Annals of Tryon County. 

4 The Minutes of the Tryon County Committee of Safety, June 29, 
1775. 



U HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

repass to hurt the country."^ A like recommendation 
was made® to the Tryon Committee on July 3, by the 
associated settlers at Fort Stanwix, who represented 
their dangerous situation due to their exposed posi- 
tion, and it was immediately resolved that the matter 
be brought to the attention of the Schenectady Com- 
mittee that they might if so inclined^ send one hundred 
men to the post. 

With a view of using still further means of keep- 
ing the Indians in a position of neutrality, Congress 
on July 12 established an Indian Department with 
three subdivisions — Northern, Middle and Southern. 
Major-General Philip Schuyler was appointed one of 
the five commissioners of the Northern Department, 
and under the direction of this body a second con- 
ference^ with the Indians was held at Albany in 
August.* 

About five hundred Indians attended this confer- 
ence. Presents to the amount of one hundred and 
fifty pounds worth of goods were distributed and, 
while the Council was not wholly representative, the 

5 Ihid. 

6 The Minutes of the Tryon County Committee of Safety, July 3, 1775. 

7 Other than bringing the matter to the attention of the Albany 
Committee no action appears to have been taken by the Schenectady 
Committee, they "being unable to afford any assistance." 

8 On August 19, a letter was received by the Schenectady Committee 
from Turbot Francis, another of the commissioners of the Northern 
Department, requesting that no rum or strong liquor be sold to the 
Indians as they passed through the town on their way to the Council. 
Upon receipt of the letter the instructions were immediately acted upon, 
"the Crier being sent Bound the Town" to give the necessary warning. 

9 The Council commenced its sittings on the twenty-third and was the 
last Indian councU ever held in Albany. The proceedings of the Council 
may be found in Stone's Life of Joseph Brant, I, 430-457. 



FRICTION WITH SIB JOHN JOHNSON 45 

Indians solemnly agreed not to take up arms for either 
side. 

Toward the end of July a more serious clash than 
had yet occurred took place between Sir John John- 
son and his Whig neighbors. Alexander White/*' the 
sheriff of Tryon County, had imprisoned John 
Fonda,'^ much to the displeasure of the Whigs, who, 
some one hundred strong, went'^ to the jaiP^ and 
forced his release. Following this the mob attempted 
to take the sheriff, shots. were exchanged and White 
subsequently sought the protection of Sir John 
Johnson. 

^'Expecting that an attempt would be made to 
retake Fonda," wrote" Christopher Yates^^ to the 
Albany and Schenectady Committees on July 22, ''we 
have collected together about 5 or 600 men to pro- 
tect Fonda and take the Sheriff prisoner. We have 
wrote to Sir John Johnson, Bart, and requested him 
to deliver the sheriff to us, or that we would take 
him by force. 

10 He was the first sheriff of Tryon County and had held office since 
March 16, 1772. He was a bitter partisan and very unpopular with his 
Whig neighbors because of his Tory opiaions freely expressed. 

11 Fonda was a man of some prominence. He had been arrested for 
striking with a hoe one Thomas Hunt, a servant of White's, following 
a quarrel brought about by reason of Hunt's having trespassed on 
Fonda's land after he had been warned against so doing. 

12 Letter of Christopher P. Yates, July 22, 1775. The Eecords of 
the Albany Committee of Safety. 

13 This jail is the one still standing in the city of Johnstown. 
1* The Eecords of the Albany Committee of Safety. 

15 Christopher P. Yates, one of the most active of the Tryon County 
Committee and a deputy to the first and third Provincial Congresses. 
He held a captain's commission in 1774 and was commissary of General 
Herkimer's brigade. He served as a volunteer in the Canadian expedi- 
tion and in 1776 was a major in the 1st New York Line. 



46 BISTORT OF SCHENECTADY 

''The Gent, we sent up being John Frey^® and 
Anthony Van Veghten^^ inform us that Sir John has 
got about 400 men in Johnstown and has fortified his 
house in such a manner that it is not possible for us 
to take the sheriff out of the house with small arms 
and Sir John declared to Messrs. Frey and Van 
Veghten that he would protect the sheriff so long as 
he remained in his house. 

''As the sheriff gives us a great deal of trouble 
Insulting us on every occasion and bids us open defi- 
ance we are therefore now determined to have him, 
and as we understand that their are field pieces in 
Schenectady we request you would send us a couple 
with all the implements necessary." 

The letter from Christopher Yates came first to 
the Schenectady Committee, who immediately for- 
warded^* it to the Albany Committee "by the Mohok's 
Express^^ viz: Jno. Newkirk & Wm. Snook," with an 
enclosure^" stating that the Board was of the opinion 
that it was necessary that something be done in the 
matter at once, the more so because if their friends 
who were then gathered together were permitted to 
return home without having accomplished the desired 
end the moral effect would be very bad. 

16 Major John Frey was a prime mover in organizing the Tryon 
County Committee of Safety. He was commissioned a captain by the 
Provincial Congress June 28, 1775, and elected sheriff after the deposi- 
tion of Alexander White. He was wounded at Oriskany and taken 
prisoner to Canada, where he remained until October 28, 1778. 

17 Anthony Van Vechten, adjutant in Colonel Kloek 's regiment. 

18 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety, July 22, 
1775. 

19 These "expresses" were sometimes fleet runners or men on horse- 
back. In this case they appear to have been two Mohawk Indians. 

20 The Eeeords of the Albany Committee of Safety. 



FRICTION WITH SIR JOHN JOHNSON 47 

While they expressed their admiration of the spirit 
shown by their friends in Tryon County, the members 
of the Albany Committee were not wholly in accord 
with their seemingly hasty action, and fearing pos- 
sibly that in the excitement of the moment the Com- 
mittee at Schenectady might be led to take some 
action which they might later have cause to regret, 
it was resolved that a letter suggesting caution be 
sent them. 

*'It is more than probable [that the] sheriff has 
repeatedly been imprudent and perhaps insulting," 
read" the letter in part, "but let our enemies never 
have cause to upbraid us for infringing on the laws 
and Constitution which we are studiously endeavoring 
to preserve against Parliamentary encroachment. 

"It gives us pain that we on this head diifer in 
sentiments with our Brethren to the westward but we 
flatter ourselves in the expectation that when they 
will suffer passion and Eesentment to subside that 
they will agree with us in these observations." 

The letter further suggested that a committee pro- 
ceed at once to Johnstown for the purpose of "heal- 
ing the unhappy and distressing differences," and 
agreeable to this suggestion Henry Glen and Har- 
manus Wendell were subsequently chosen to represent 
the Schenectady Committee. 

On the next day (July 23) John Fonda reported to 
the Schenectady Committee that Sheriff White had 
left^^ Johnstown, presumably for Canada, and on the 
twenty-ninth the Albany Committee reported^^ to 

21 Ibid. 

22 He was afterward captured and imprisoned at Albany, to be 
finally, in 1783, banished by the Committee. 

23 The Eecords of the Albany Committee of Safety. 



48 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

General Schuyler that not only was the unhappy dis- 
pute with Sir John amicably settled, he agreeing to 
take no further active part in the dispute between 
Great Britain and the American Colonies, but that 
the apprehension of the inhabitants of Tryon County 
respecting the Indians was entirely removed. 

In spite of his promises, however. Sir John John- 
son continued to cause trouble throughout the remain- 
der of the summer and autumn of 1775, and in 
December the Continental Congress resolved to send 
General Schuyler to Tryon County under orders to 
secure the arms and stores of the Tories and ''to 
apprehend their chiefs."" 

On January 13, 1776, word of the intended expe- 
dition was received by the Schenectady Committee, 
the letter^" containing a request that the Board send 
immediately to Albany "a company of 60 men com- 
pletely armed, with proper officers to command them 
and four days provisions." Orders^® were at once 
given to the officers of the "minute" companies to 
have the necessary men ready for the march, with 
further instructions to include besides the number 
required any who wished to go as volunteers, and on 
the next day" the expedition set out for Albany in 
sleds, there to join the militia already assembled. 

In order that the Indians might not be alarmed at 
seeing troops in the Valley (this being a direct viola- 
tion of the treaty entered into with them at Albany 
the previous autumn, whereby it was solemnly agreed 

2* The Journals of the American Congress. 

25 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

26 Hid. 

27 Ibid. 



FRICTION WITH SIR JOHN JOHNSON 49 

that the Mohawk River should be open for trade, that 
no troops should be sent into those parts and that Sir 
John should remain unmolested), General Schuyler 
dispatched^* a messenger to the Lower Mohawk Castle^® 
to explain that he was marching to Johnstown in order 
to ascertain the condition of affairs. 

Without waiting for the return of his messenger 
General Schuyler went forward. At Schenectady he 
was met by a delegation of the Mohawks under Little 
Abram, who reported^'' in substance that the coming 
of an armed force had alarmed the Indians and that 
the delegation wished to be present at any interview 
that might take place between General Schuyler and 
Sir John in order that they too might know the true 
state of affairs. 

At the request of the Indians General Schuyler 
wrote^^ to Sir John Johnson from Schenectady on the 
sixteenth, requesting Sir John to meet him at any 
place between Schenectady and Johnstown, whither 
he would set out on the following day. 

On the seventeenth General Schuyler, his force con- 
stantly increasing until it numbered nearly three thou- 
sand men, had proceeded some sixteen miles beyond 
Schenectady before the meeting with Sir John took 
place. Sir John asked until the evening of the next day 
to consider the proposals placed before him by General 
Schuyler and his request being granted he returned 
to Johnstown. It was not until the eleventh hour that 

28 William L. Stone, Life of Joseph Brant, I, 121. 

29 The Mohawks of the Lower Castle had not gone with Colonel 
Johnson. 

30 The speech of Little Abram is given in Stone 's Life of Joseph 
Brant, I, 123-132. 

31 William L. Stone, Life of Joseph Brant, I, 132-133. 



50 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

the terms proposed^^ were acceded to, and on Sir 
John's agreement to surrender all his arms and mili- 
tary stores and to use his influence to induce all the 
Loyalists in the county to do the same, he was released 
on parole. 

Reports that Sir John was acting in violation of his 
parole, and continued rumors of Indian uprisings 
finally caused General Schuyler to order his arrest 
and in May (1776) Colonel Dayton^^ was dispatched 
to Johnstown for the purpose, without avail, however, 
as, forewarned of the approach of the troops, Sir 
John had taken alarm and with a large number of 
followers hastily departed for Canada, 

32 The correspondence passing between General Schuyler and Sir John 
Johnson is given in Stone's Life of Joseph Brant, I, 133-141. 

33 Colonel Ellas Dayton, then colonel of the 3d New Jersey. 



CHAPTER IX 
THE CANADIAN EXPEDITION 

To the garrisoning of Ticonderoga and Crown 
Point, Congress had consented after much hesitation, 
believing that such an act of offensive warfare would 
further remove the chances of conciliation for which 
many still hoped. 

Events, however, moved rapidly during the sum- 
mer of 1775, and before fall Congress was laying 
plans for an invasion of Canada. Their decision was 
influenced by the knowledge that the Canadians were 
but lukewarm in their attitude toward the British 
Crown and by the memory of the French and Indian 
raids by way of Canada that had terrorized the 
northern provinces for over a century and a half. 
With Canada in hostile hands and without the co- 
operation of its inhabitants it was felt that no perfect 
unification of the Colonies could be effected. 

Contingent upon the transportation of the army 
and its supplies destined for the Canadian campaign 
arose the necessity of boats on Lake George and Lake 
Champlain, together with necessary barracks and 
storehouses at the former place. To meet this demand 
the services of available carpenters were eagerly 
sought. From Schenectady, Jacob Vrooman, Michael 
(or Claus) Veeder and Tacarus Van der Bogart were, 
in September, appointed overseers or captains and 



52 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

under them enlisted^ not a few of their fellow towns- 
men; the companies thus formed remaining on duty 
at the Lakes for practically the rest of the year.^ 

Captain Van Dyck, assigned to the 2d New York 
Line, had finally left Schenectady mth his men late 
in August or early in September, the company march- 
ing to Ticonderoga, thence to Crown Point, and after 
having performed guard duty for a short period at 
the latter place, proceeding to the Isle Aux Noix,^ 
later forming part of the detachment that reduced 
Chamblee* and seeing active service at the siege^ of 
St. John's.^ 

Late in December the whole of Colonel Wemple's 
regiment stood a draft, about every seventh man 
being chosen for service. The troops thus selected 
marched to Fort Edward, then to Skenesborough, 
whence, news having been received of the death of 
Montgomery and of the failure to take Quebec, they 
were, after remaining some time at the fort, ordered 
home.^ 

Early in February, in response to a request® from 
the Committee at Albany, Harmanus Wendell and 

1 The services of these men, as in fact of all artisans in the Conti- 
nental service, should not be depreciated for it must be remembered 
that they as well as the militiamen were jeopardizing their liberties. 
When workmen were enlisted in the service, the master workmen placed 
in command of the companies as overseers held corresponding army ranks. 

2 Pension Office Kecords, Simon J. Van Antwerp S 28924 ; Adam 
Conde; Jacob P. Clute; Christopher Peek W 16371. 

3 At the northern extremity of Lake Champlain. 

4 Chamblee was captured by the American troops on October 20, 1775. 

5 Fort St. John 's was taken in November. 

6 Pension Office Eecords, Peter Warren Cain W 16525. 

7 Pension Office Eecords, Frederick Weller S 14816. 

8 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 



THE CANADIAN EXPEDITION 53 

Abraham Wemple were appointed^ by the Schenec- 
tady Committee "to take the sense of the people" in 
order to ascertain how many sleds could be counted 
upon from the district for the use of the troops then 
on their way to reinforce the remnant of the American 
army encamped before Quebec. 

The letter^" from the Albany Committee contained 
the further request that the consideration of the 
Schenectady Board be given to the appointment of 
necessary officers to command such additional troops 
as it might be called upon to raise in the district, and 
in compliance with this request it was decided" to 
recommend for appointment the following: 

Captain, John A. Bradt. 

First lieutenant, Solomon Pendleton. 

Second lieutenant, David Bates. 

Ensign, Christopher Peek.^^ 

Captain Bradt, who was absent from town at the 
time his appointment was made, was still absent on 
April 10, when under the direction of the Committee 
the proposed company was being formed, and as it was 
felt that the filling of the office of captain could not 
''with propriety" be longer delayed, the command 
was given to Gerrit S. Veeder, much to the displeas- 
ure of the other officers, who immediately appeared 
before the Board and resigned their commissions, 
stating that their action was prompted by reason of 

9 Hid. 

10 Ihid. 
n Ihid. 

12 He resigned his commission on March 11, 1776, because of his 
father's displeasure with him for having accepted it and Ephraim Snow 
was appointed to his place. 



54 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

the men being mutinous and dissatisfied with the 
selection of the Committee/^ The differences were, 
however, ahnost immediately adjusted,^* their com- 
missions being returned to the officers by the Board 
upon request, but with a word of caution regarding 
their future behavior, and the company numbering 
thirty-eight men (officers excluded) was assigned^^ 
to the regiment of Colonel Cornelius D. Wynkoop. 

With the approach of spring, to the multiplicity of 
other affairs was added the necessity of again taking 
up the building operations at the Lakes which had 
been suspended at the beginning of the winter. Many 
artisans from Schenectady were again engaged^® for 
this work and early in March repaired to their 
assigned posts, continuing their work of constructing 

13 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

14 Hid. 

15 Pension Office Eeeords, Gerrit S. Veeder S 7792. Archives of the 
State of New York, p. 98. 

16 There is in the possession of the author an original agreement 
dated March 1, 1776, signed by Philip Schuyler as party of the first part 
and by thirty-eight of the townspeople, who, as parties of the second 
part, agreed to "immediately repair to Fort George, Tyconderoga, or 
such other place in the provinces of New York or Quebec, as Gen. 
Schuyler [should] direct, and there employ themselves in building and 
constructing such and so many batteaus or other vessels or buildings" 
as should be directed, and on the following terms: that they were "to 
begin their work at sunrise and continue at it till sunset (excepting 
one hour for breakfast and one and one-half hour for dinner). That 
each of them was to find and provide necessary tools and implements 
for the construction of the said work," and that each should receive 
over and above his wages "one pound and one-quarter of a pound of 
pork, and one-half pound of flour per day, four pints of peas per week, 
one pint of mUasses per week, and half a pint of rum per day. ' ' 

A company of fatigue men under Captain John Clute was also enlisted 
at about this time. This company served at Saratoga, Fort Miller, 
Albany and Stillwater, remaining on duty until January 1, 1777. Pen- 
sion Office Kecords, John Corl S 15263. 



THE CANADIAN EXPEDITION 55 

barracks, storehouses and gunboats for the army until 
well into the fall." 

The ravages of smallpox, which had broken out 
in the American camp during the winter, added to the 
scarcity of food and proper equipment, had by spring 
rendered half the troops unfit for duty. Schuyler 
communicated^^ this deplorable state of affairs to the 
Albany Committee on May 15, urging that they col- 
lect as many wagons as possible to transport provi- 
sions to Lake George, to be later forwarded to the 
army. This communication was sent later to the 
Schenectady Committee, who at once "made public 
by advertisement" their resolve "that no waggons be 
employed in carrying any goods or stores up or down 
between Schenectady and Albany for ten days unless 
they were going into the public service. "^^ Myndert 
M. Wemple was further employed as a committee of 
one to engage every available wagon for the service. 

Arnold meanwhile, stubbornly contesting his 
ground, slowly retreated from Canada, and on July 
3 his mere skeleton of an army, presenting a most 
pitiable picture, arrived at Crown Point, where it had 
been determined to make a final stand. 

Due to Arnold's foresight of the year before the 
strength of the American flotilla, meager though it 
was, was sufficient to retain the control of Lake 
Champlain, and it was to the overpowering of this 
flotilla, the strength of which the Americans were 
meanwhile making every endeavor to increase, that 

17 Pension Office Eecords, Joseph Peek W 2568 ; Benjamin Van Vleck 
E 10897; Albert L, Vedder S 11840; Simon J, Van Antwerp S 28924; 
Adam Conde. 

18 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

19 lUd. 



56 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Sir Guy Carleton, the British commander, turned his 
attention, moving forward early in October with 
everything in readiness, and on the tenth entering 
into the three days' engagement that ended in the 
complete accomplishment of his purpose. The way 
to Crown Point was now open and towards this for- 
tress Carleton at once proceeded,^" only to find on his 
arrival that the works had been abandoned and that 
the Americans had fallen back on Ticonderoga. 

The season was now well advanced, and deeming 
it unwise on this account to hazard a campaign that 
might be prolonged, Carleton did not press his advan- 
tage but withdrew his forces to Canada and there 
went into winter quarters. 

Although so disastrously defeated, the first Ameri- 
can navy had gloriously served its purpose, for it had 
necessitated a delay in the British advance just long 
enough to save the American forces an engagement, 
which, with Howe in possession of New York, might 
have accomplished in 1776 what Burgoyne failed to 
accomplish the next year. 

20 At about this time a company drafted in Schenectady was on duty 
at Skenesborough and Fort Ann guarding boats and ammunition. Pen- 
sion Office Eecords, Nicholas Barhydt; J. Wemple S 23490; Bartholomew 
Schermerhom S 17078. 



CHAPTER X 

THE ACTIVITIES OF LOCAL WHIG AND 
LOYALIST 

On May 18, 1775, the Albany Committee had re- 
solved^ that all who refused to give up arms for the 
American cause or sold either arms or supplies to 
"inimical persons" should be held up to the public 
as enemies of their country. Later any one who 
refused public service, and on March 6, 1776, every 
'*non-associator,"^ was placed in the same category. 
Upon the militia acting under orders from the Com- 
mittees^ of Safety devolved the duty of apprehending 
those against whom complaint had been entered. 

These complaints and subsequent arrests were 

1 The Minutes of the Albany Committee of Safety. 

2 On February 6, 1776, the Schenectady Committee resolved that 
inasmuch as "a number of the inhabitants of [the] Township was 
from home at the time the General Association was handed about to 
be signed, consequently had not an opportunity at that time, and by 
carelessness [had] neglected doing it since," and that inasmuch as they 
were "willing to give all those who [were] friendly to the American 
cause an opportunity of Evincing their sentiments to their neighbors 
. . . that the association paper be again opened, and that all who [were 
inclined] to sign it [might] have an opportunity by applying to the 
Chairman of [the] Committee." The Minutes of the Schenectady 
Committee of Safety. 

3 With the establishment of the state government, the passing of 
laws to deal with the Tories and the appointing of committees to enforce 
these laws the powers of the local committees gradually waned and their 
activities ceased. 



58 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



incited by a variety of causes? aiding the enemy in 
any way ;* associating^ or corresponding with Tories ; 
refusing to sign the Association or violating its pro- 
visions; denouncing or refusing to obey congresses 
and committees; writing^ or speaking^ against the 
American cause; rejecting^ Continental money or 
drinking^ the King's health, and even mere suspicion 
was not infrequently deemed sufficient to justify a 
man's seizure." 

4 Alexander Campbell was sent a prisoner to Connecticut for having 
warned Sir John Johnson of his danger, 

5 John Duncan owed his recommendation as " a dangerous person ' ' 
and subsequent arrest to the fact that enemies of the American cause 
were supposed to meet not infrequently at his house. 

6 On January 14, 1776, Benjamin Hilton was brought before the 
Committee for writing a letter to Sheriff White ' * containing some expres- 
sions very unfriendly to the American cause." The Minutes of the 
Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

7 On January 31, 1776, George Eamsey was brought before the Com- 
mittee on the complaint of William Murray because "said Eamsay 
called him a Tratore and a Eebel, and asked him if he was not ashamed 
to fight against his king." On February 8, Joseph Kingsley was com- 
mitted to the Albany jail for making use of " unwarrentable expres- 
sions." The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

8 At the meeting of the Schenectady Committee on July 31, 1777, a 
resolution was brought in by a subcommittee "concerning John Sanders 
and Daniel Campbell with respect to their refusing the Continental 
Currency in payment and in general for all Persons guilty of the same 
crime." Sanders was subsequently delivered over to the State Com- 
mittee of Safety at Kingston, The Minutes of the Schenectady Com- 
mittee of Safety. 

9 On August 6, 1777, John Gregg was committed to the Albany jail 
upon the evidence of John A, Bradt and William Moore, who swore "on 
the holy Evangelists of Almighty God" that they were present when 
said John Gregg drank ' ' a Health to King George the third and success 
to him in all his proceedings," The Minutes of the Schenectady 
Committee of Safety, 

10 On May 13, 1777, the Schenectady Committee resolved that inas- 
much as they looked upon certain persons (ten in number whose names 
are mentioned) as "dangerous," "their names should be given in to 



ACTIVITIES OF WHIG AND LOYALIST 59 

To Albany" as a concentration center to await their 
final disposition were transferred the greater part of 
those arrested in this section, and by December, 1775, 
so crowded was the jail there that the Committee was 
obliged to provide additional quarters and secure an 
extra jailer/^ 

While, as was natural with the spirit of the times, 
not a few Loyalists suffered not only indignities^^ and 
loss of property^* but also sustained sentences on 
somewhat questionable testimony,^^ mob action was 
universally condemned^® by the Whig authorities and 
an honest effort for the most part appears to have 
been made by the Committees to give the accused ones 
fair trials/^ In Albany County it was permitted the 
accused not only to produce witnesses to corroborate 
his testimony and establish his innocence, but to 
demand that his accuser appear also.^* 

The nature of the individual case appears to have 
governed the imposed sentence of convicted Loyal- 

the field ofi&cers." All were subsequently arrested. The Minutes of 
the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

11 The Minutes of the Albany and Schenectady Committees of Safety. 

12 The Minutes of the Albany Committee of Safety. 

13 On July 14, 1775, the Schenectady Committee was informed "that 
Serjeant Welsh, with a party of men, had gone to Currey Bush and 
brought in Simon Vedder to town in a riotous manner." The Minutes 
of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

1* In 1776, because of his action in warning Sir John Johnson (note 
4, above), a mob burned the storehouse of Alexander Campbell at 
Schoharie and later destroyed "his store at Schenectady with goods 
and merchandise burning at the same time eight loads of hay and 
poisoning two milch cows." Loyalists' Papers. 

15 The Minutes of the Albany Committee of Safety. 

16 Alexander Clarance Flick, Loyalism in New York. 

17 The Minutes of the Albany and Schenectady Committees of Safety. 
Alexander Clarence Flick, Loyalism in New York. 

18 The Minutes of the Albany Committee of Safety. 



60 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

ists rather than any uniform mode of procedure fol- 
lowed by the Committees; some were placed in con- 
finement,^® others were released on parole or bond^** 
or simply disarmed,^^ some were exiled to neighbor- 
ing states^^ or sent within the enemies' lines,^^ many 
were forced to sign the Association or take the Oath 
of Allegiance and nearly all were required to carry 
certificates of character^* and, when leaving the county 
for any reason, to obtain permission from the proper 
authorities."^ All expenses incurred by Loyalists 
either in their trials, imprisonment or banishment 
were charged against them.^® 

19 The Minutes of the Albany and Schenectady Committees of Safety. 

20 John Duncan on December 19, 1776, was ordered confined to the 
limits of his farm and required to give a bond of £500 for his good 
behavior and the carrying out of the order. The acceptance of bonds 
by the Commissioners of Conspiracies was quite frequent. 

21 The treatment accorded some was even more lenient. On August 
28, 1777, one John Moneer was summoned before the Committee to 
answer the charge of being an "inimical" person. Moneer alleged 
that he had come to Schenectady for the sake of his health, as he 
received much benefit from the air here. Upon hearing his testimony 
the Committee immediately resolved that he be permitted to remain 
' ' for his health. ' ' The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

22 Alexander Campbell was one of these (note 4, above). He was 
later released on parole. 

23 Daniel Campbell, James Ellice and others were under orders to 
remove, but at the last moment were permitted to stay on their signing 
the Oath of Allegiance. Alexander Campbell, John Doty (the rector 
of St. George's) and John Stuart (the Indian minister at Fort Hunter 
who was confined at Schenectady), were sent to Canada. 

24 These certificates were refused to those who had not signed the 
Association. 

25 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

2« In the case of Kingsley and Eamsey (note 7, above), Kingsley was 
charged twenty shillings for a sled and two men to carry him to Albany. 
This he absolutely refused to pay and the Committee therefore ordered 
that he be given until nine o'clock on the following Monday to pay and 
that if the account was not settled at that time he was to be again 



ACTIVITIES OF WHIG AND LOYALIST 61 



Throughout New York the Loyalists were excep- 
tionally strong and numerous, and although they had 
neither organized nor taken up arms as soon as their 
Whig neighbors, it was not long before Tory plots 
were everywhere unearthed. 

While in Schenectady not a few influential and 
wealthy citizens were of English sympathies, the Com- 
mittee of Safety appears to have experienced little 
trouble from them as compared with the annoyance 
caused by the Tories^^ in the outlying districts who 
constantly threatened the Whig settlers in their 
exposed positions in the Westina and at the Aalplaats. 

The failure of the campaign against Canada, the 
success of the British around New York and the antici- 
pation of an early advance on the part of the King's 
troops from the north added many recruits to the 
Loyalist party, and in spite of the various measures 
adopted for their suppression, so obnoxious did they 
become throughout Albany County during the sum- 
mer of 1776, when threats were even made to raise 
the English flag,^^ that two companies of State 
Rangers were ordered formed for their apprehen- 
sion, and in August, John A. Bradt of Schenectady 

committed to the Albany jail, there to remain until the amount was 
paid, together with what charges might arise on account of his second 
confinement. Eamsey was charged sixteen shillings, which amount he 
promised to pay. The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

27 One that caused the Whigs no end of annoyance was the famous 
Joseph Bettis, "He and his associates did great injury to the American 
cause by communicating intelligence to the enemy, and gave the country 
great uneasiness and trouble for two or three years. Spies and detached 
parties were again and again sent in pursuit of them but without suc- 
cess. " [Pension Office Eecords, Adam Van Patten S 17168.] He was 
at last taken and hung in Albany. 

28 American Archives, 4th Series, V, 343, 345. 



62 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

was commissioned a captain and given a warrant by 
Congress for the raising of one^® of these companies. 
The increasing activities on the part of the Tories, 
the continuing unfavorable news from the north and, 
as we have seen, the fears regarding Sir John John- 
son, brought with them the necessity of increased 
vigilance on the part of the Schenectady Committee. 
Steps were early taken looking towards the conserva- 
tion of the town's resources,^'' those known to hold 
Tory sentiments were more closely watched, guards 
were placed on both sides of the river to prevent the 
passing either up or down of persons who were not 
known to be friends of the American cause,^^ and for 
**fear of broils," because of the number of strangers 
that thronged the town the watches were ordered 
doubled.^^ The stockades were strengthened, the 
work being done by members of the militia,^^ and for 
the better accommodation of the troops passing 
through or to be later quartered here. General Wash- 
ington, on September 23, 1776, at the instance of the 
Committee, was approached^* through General Schuy- 
ler regarding the erection of barracks. 

29 The original roll of this company is in the possession of the author. 

30 On December 29, 1775, the Committee resolved to apply to the 
magistrates to use their authority in putting a stop to the customary 
firing of guns on New Year's Day, believing that such a custom was 
attended with an unnecessary waste of powder. The Minutes of the 
Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

31 This action was directly connected with the affairs at Johnstown 
and the precaution was taken that no news of the intended expedition 
against the Tories in that quarter might precede it. 

32 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety, January 14, 
1776. 

33 When not on guard duty or out on expeditions members of the 
militia were often employed in this work. 

34 Washington Papers, Library of Congress. 



ACTIVITIES OF WHIG AND LOYALIST 63 

The site chosen for their erection was the south- 
west corner of Union and Lafayette Streets,^^ and by 
November 6 the construction of a building containing 
accommodations for six hundred men was well under 
way.^® 

35 Jonathan Pearson, History of the Schenectady Patent, p. 318, note. 
On the present site of the German Methodist Church. Lafayette Street 
had not, of course, been cut through. 

36 Philip Schuyler to Congress. Orderly Book of the Northern Army, 
p. 168. 



CHAPTER XI 

THE PLAN FOR THE CAMPAIGN OF 1777. 
FURTHER ACTIVITIES OF INDIAN AND 
TORY. THE SCHENECTADY COMMIT- 
TEE ESTABLISHES A WATCH. 
THE DIFFICULTIES OF 
PROCURING WAGONS 
AND MEN 

During the winter (1776-1777) General John Bur- 
goyne, who had been serving under General Carleton, 
sailed for England to lay before the Ministry a plan 
of campaign for the following year, the easily suc- 
cessful accomplishment of which he confidently be- 
lieved would end the war. The plan as proposed and 
accepted was for the main British army to move 
southward up Lake Champlain; a second army under 
Lieutenant-Colonel Barry St. Leger to move east- 
ward by way of Oswego down the Mohawk, and a third 
force under Sir Henry Clinton to move northward 
up the Hudson — the three forces concentrating on 
Albany. Thus a division of the Colonies would be 
effected and from their central position the combined 
British forces could easily crush in turn each isolated 
section. 

The effect on the Indians of the withdrawal of the 
American forces from Canada had been very soon 



PLAN FOB CAMPAIGN OF 1777 65 

apparent/ General Schuyler, redoubling his efforts 
to hold them in a position of neutrality, had in July 
(1776) called a counciP at German Flats, the outcome 
of which was on the whole satisfactory, or enough so 
to cause him to feeP that although he could count for 
active support upon none save the Oneidas, the 
Indians would not engage against the colonists. 

General Schuyler's hopes were, however, not to be 
realized, for with the coming of spring came news of 
matters that were transpiring of dire import to the 
settlers of the Valley. Joseph Brant had joined a 
rapidly increasing body of Indians at Oghwaga, where 
the British flag had been raised, leaving little doubt 
as to their probable course of action.* 

Throughout Cherry Valley the alarm spread rap- 
idly, nor were the rumors of Indian and Tory raids 
confined to that section alone, for on April 11, word^ 
was brought to the Schenectady Committee that a 
number of Tories residing in the vicinity of Clifton 
Park had left to join a band of Indians and that they 
were '^to come to destroy the people that lived there- 
about in about three days time." For the apprehen- 
sion of the enemy and the protection of the patriots 
Colonel Wemple was applied to for a detail of militia, 
while to the Ballston and Albany Committees were dis- 

i"Our misfortunes in Canada have made them [the Indians] some- 
what assuming," wrote Schuyler to John Trumbull on July 31. 
Trumbull Papers, XXV, 109. 

2 On July 11 the Albany Committee sent a request to the Committee 
at Schenectady that "they furnish as many of their Troop of Horse as 
possible to join General Schuyler," who was to set off on the morrow 
for German Flats. The Minutes of the Albany Committee of Safety. 

3 Trumbull Papers, XXV, 109-113. 

* Francis Whiting Halsey, The Old New York Frontier. 
5 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 



66 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

patched letters asking that they forward detachments 
to meet the Schenectady militia at Wilson's Mill, 
Ballston, at noon of the following day. These let- 
ters contained a further admonition that they ^'be 
sure and not take a man but what was a friend to 
the States."' 

With the necessity of increased diligence the Com- 
mittee of Safety at Schenectady determined upon the 
establishment of a regular watch/ and on April 13 
the following resolution was therefore passed:^ ''that 
all persons in this Town, above the Age of sixteen 
years, shall watch, and that their be a watch Estab- 
lished of One Officer & Eleven men, that such watch 
begins at 9 Clock, in the Evening & Continues Till 
Daylight Next Morning, that the persons ordered to 
watch be warned by the Town Major Appointed for 
that Purpose, & that the said Town Major attends the 
watch Every Evening at Ten Clock to see if they 
all Appear, & Take an Account of all persons not 
attending the watch, which List he is to give in to 
the Chairman of this Committee & such Person or 
Persons so Neglecting of if warned shall forfit a fine 
not Exceeding Twelve pence which shall be recovered 
by a Warrent of the Chairman of this Committee." 

At the meeting on the nineteenth the following rules 
and orders covering the watch were issued:® 

6 Ihid. 

7 This was by virtue of a resolve of the Continental Congress of 
August 22, 1775. On November 2, 1778, a state law required the 
establishment of a regular watch in certain counties, of which Albany 
was one. In the city of Albany and town of Schenectady clergymen 
alone were exempted from service. 

8 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

9 Ibid. 



PLAN FOB CAMPAIGN OF 1777 67 

1. The wach are to meet at 9 Clock every Evening and 
whoever belongs to the wach and does not appear before ten 
Clock Shall be Judged fineable. . 

2d. Two men belonging to the wach to go round true all 
the Streets in the town once every hour, 

3. A Gentry to be fixed in the Box on the top of the 
wach house^" to be released once every hour. 

4. As the wach house will once more be made Convenient 
and in repair it is Expected that the wach will not abuse 
the same as has been Customare it is resolved that if any 
thing Shall be broke or put out of order that the officer of 
the wach when the same happens shall be Liable to pay 
the Damages. 

At this same meeting it was further resolved : 

that the town wach be very delegent in apprehending all 
Negroes that may be found to run on the Street after ten 
OClock that if they take any of them up to confine them in 
the wach house till next morning and then their owners 
may releas them on paying three Shillings to the watch 
for Each Negro or Els they are to receive thirty Lashes on 
their naked back and also that the said wach be very Dele- 
gent in apprehending such places that Negroes may be com- 
bined together and take them in Confiniment and inflict the 
above punishment on them, and the owner of such house 
where such Negroes may be found together Shall pay a fine 
of forty Shillings to the Officer of the wach, which fine Shall 
be recovered by warrent from the Chairman of this or any 
future Committee. 

At the meeting of the Committee on April 24 a 
letter" was received from the Albany Committee 

10 This was probably the old Dutch Church which stood at the inter- 
section of State, Church and Water Streets and which, after the new 
church was erected, was turned into a guard- and watchhouse and so 
used for many years. 

11 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 



68 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



requesting the furnishing of twenty wagons for ser- 
vice between Albany and Lake George, and a detail 
of forty-four men for garrison duty. Steps were 
immediately taken to comply with the request, and 
after having conferred with the field officers present 
at the meeting Colonel Wemple ordered the men 
allotted for duty warned to appear properly equipped 
at his home the next morning at eight o'clock. The 
matter of collecting wagons, however, presented diffi- 
culties which were not to be overcome and of this the 
Albany Committee was at once thus advised :^^ 

In regard of the Weagons you requested us to send, we 
had received a Letter from Col. Lewis A few Days before 
Desiring our assistance in Procuring a Number of wagons 
out of our Distract, as they were much wanted we accord- 
ingly tryed all in our Power to git waggons, but the season 
of the year being such at Present that our waggoners (as 
they Chiefly all Raise their own Grain) cant Possibly Leave 
home. We made shift to git Eleven on Promising they 
should only do one trip to Lake George and then Return 
home again. We Accordingly sent them to Col. Lewis 
acquainting him of our Promise to said Waggoners. On 
Receiving your Letter we made another Tryal true the hole 
Distract thinking that by warning the Militia to go on Duty, 
it would induce Several Rather to go with a waggon than 
on other Duty, but have not been able to git more than five 
Waggons which we now send Down. If they will not anser 
the Present Demand from our Distract then we Expect your 
further advice in this mater. 

In answer to the summons for service but twenty- 
two men, including officers, appeared as ordered. 
These immediately set out, to be followed later by 

12 Ibid. 



PLAN FOB CAMPAIGN OF 1777 69 

eight more, who, because they lived out of town, had 
received no proper warning. 

The fact that so many had failed to obey their 
orders was at once reported to the Committee by 
Colonel Wemple. It was thereupon resolved^^ "that 
those person that [had] neglected to appear, hav- 
ing been duly [warned should] be emedeately fined 
for ten Shillings Each And be warned again to appear 
at the Captains Dore on monday [at] 8 OClock in 
the morning acquipt to go on garison duty as before 
and if they or any of them [neglected] to appear 
then they [should] be fijied for twenty Shillings Each 
and ordered again to appear the same day [at] One 
OClock in the afternoon which if they [neglected] 
again they [were] to be Sent to Close Confiniment." 

The threats of fines and of close confinement seem 
to have availed little, for on the twenty-eighth the 
Committee decided" that inasmuch as ''it [appeared] 
that those people that [had] refused to go on Duty 
[could not] be made willing by fining them, and [that 
as they had] no proper president before [them] what 
Should be done . . , further," it was best that the 
matter be placed before the Albany Committee for 
their advice. 

The detachment that had set out marched under 
Lieutenant Van Slyck to Albany, to Saratoga, where 
they joined some four hundred of the Vermont mili- 
tia under Colonel Seth Warner, thence to Jessups 
Patent by way of Fort Edward.^^ The object of the 
expedition was to capture one John Morrell, a Tory 

13 Ibid. 

14 IMd. 

15 Pension Office Eecords, Frederick Weller S 14816; Bartholomew 
Schermerhorn S 17078. 



70 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

who was busily engaged in enlisting men for the 
British cause, and to disperse a considerable number 
of Tories who had already gathered and there erected 
a blockhouse.^^ When the American troops arrived 
they found that the enemy had scattered the day 
before, but not until they had destroyed their fortifi- 
cations." 

16 Pension Office Eecords, Cornelius Williams W 18456; Christopher 
Ward. 

17 Pension Office Eecords, Christopher Ward. 



CHAPTER XII 
THE CAMPAIGN OF 1777 

On May 5 General Burgoyne returned to Quebec, 
and four days later the command of the approximately 
eight thousand troops assigned for the suppression of 
the rebellion was transferred to him. 

On June 29 Burgoyne arrived at Crown Point and 
on July 1 his forces appeared before Ticonderoga, 
which post was abandoned by the American forces 
on July 6. 

At the news of the British advance on Ticonderoga 
General Ten Broeck^ ordered^ Major Swits to march^ 
with all of the Schenectady militia to Fort Edward, 
much to the anxiety of a number of the inhabitants 
of Schenectady, who appeared* before the Committee 
on July 9 with petitions that they be ordered to stay 
in town ''on account of the alarming news from the 
westward." General Ten Broeck was appealed to 
regarding the matter and in the afternoon an answer 

1 Abraham Ten Broeck. He was in command of the brigade to 
which Colonel Wemple's regiment was joined. 

2 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

3 Details of Schenectady militia were already on duty, a company 
having been mustered here in May. Pension Office Eecords, Jacob 
Lyport S 13813; Elias Eosa W 17546. 

i The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 



72 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

to the Committee's letter was received ordering^ the 
militia to march" without delay. 

On July 30 General Burgoyne advanced to Fort 
Edward, and the American forces fell back upon 
Stillwater. 

With the troops under General Schuyler that had 
thus far so successfully disputed the advance of the 
British was a detachment of Schenectady militia 
under Lieutenant-Colonel Christopher Yates. This 
detachment was detailed for fatigue duty and under 
a strong guard had been busily engaged in felling 
trees and in otherwise rendering impenetrable the 
comparative wilderness that lay between Skenes- 
borough and Fort Edward.'^ 

With the further advance of the British, discour- 
agement and alarm spread rapidly. All the militia 
that could be collected throughout Albany County had 
been sent to the army.^ They had already been for 
some time in the service and it was reported that 
they intended soon to return to remove their families 
to a place of greater safety.^ Albany was in a state 
of panic and 'Hhe appearance of a few of the enemie's 
troops on the Mohawk River," it was felt, ''would 

B IMd. 

6 Quite a considerable number of men appear to have marched as 
ordered. These detachments remained with the Northern Army until 
the defeat of General Burgoyne, many of them seeing active service in 
the various battles fought during the retreat and in the battle of 
Bemis Heights. Pension Office Eecords, John Corl S 15263 ; Bartholo- 
mew Schermerhorn S 17078; Adam Van Patten S 17168; Nicholas P. 
Van Vranken S 17170; David Sacia W 17768; George Staley N 19123. 

7 Pension Office Eecords, Simon J. Vrooman W 6370. 

8 Public Papers of George Clinton, II, 210. 
9lUd., p. 201. 



THE CAMPAIGN OF 1777 73 

immediately make the inhabitants lay down their 
arms."^'' 

Schenectady presented a no less gloomy picture. 
*'We are sorry," wrote" Reinier Mynderse in behalf 
of the Committee to General Schuyler on August 5, 
*'to be under the Necessity of informing you of the 
disagreeable Situation of our Affairs in this place 
at present. The inhabitants in General seem much 
dejected. Since the Loss of Tyconderoga many of 
them who formerly seemed warm in the Interest of 
the Country are now quite cool, or rather inclined 
to the other side. We believe this change of Senti- 
ment in many of them to be greatly owing to the bad 
counsel and advice, they daily receive from disaf- 
fected Persons who begin to be pretty numerous 
amongst us. We are unable to take any measures to 
prevent their spreading Influence, or any thing else 
for want of a few Troops to support us. A few days 
ago we issued a warrant to impress a number of 
waggons to go and relieve those who have been a 
considerable time in the Service, but the Constables 
returned without getting one for want of force to 
put the warrant into execution.^^ We beg you will 
take our case into consideration, and if you can spare 
them, send about sixty men with good Officer to 
remain with us some time." 

On August 3 the forces under St. Leger,^^ proceed- 
ing in accordance with the formulated plan, arrived 

10 Ihid., p. 210. 

11 Ibid., p. 187. 

12 The unsuccessful efforts of the Schenectady Committee are detailed 
in its minutes. 

13 St. Leger 's second in command was Sir John Johnson. 



74 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

before Fort Stanwix. Eumor that Fort Stanwix was 
Tinder siege seems to have reached Schenectady even 
before the siege actually commenced, for Colonel 
Goose Van Schaick writing from here to General 
Schnyler on the fourth mentions it as ''a common 
report.'"* Van Schaick, with "near one hundred 
Continental troops, men and boys," was at the time 
on his way to German Flats, where, under Nicholas 
Herkimer, the Tryon County militia had gathered, 
and was endeavoring to prevail upon members of the 
Schenectady militia^"^ to join the expedition as volun- 
teers; without avail, however, for *'I find to my great 
surprise," he adds in the same letter, ''that not a 
man will go with me, either from this place or 
Scoharie. ' ' 

As soon as news was brought of the actual invest- 
ment of Fort Stanwix General Herkimer advanced 
to its relief, encamping on August 5 to await rein- 
forcements about eight miles to the east of the fort. 
Any delay was, however, displeasing to his officers 
and on the morning of the sixth, irritated by their 
impatience and insinuations, General Herkimer 
finally, against his better judgment, gave the order 
for the advance which subsequently terminated in the 
ambuscade and slaughter known as the battle of 
Oriskany. 

The siege of Fort Stanwix was soon renewed, to 
be continued until August 22, when news of the 

1* Public Papers of George Clinton, II, 169. 

15 One half of them were then under orders to march to German 
Flats but refused to go because of the dangers to which their families 
might be subjected from Tory depredations. 



TEE CAMPAIGN OF 1777 75 

approach of the troops^® under Benedict Arnold caused 
St. Leger" to withdraw hastily. 

The Tories in the vicinity of Schenectady had 
seized upon the cooling of the patriotic spirit as an 
opportunity to renew their activities. On August 10 
it was reported^^ to the Committee of Safety that a 
number of them had actually ''disarmed some of the 
inhabitants that were on guard and that they had 
assembled to the number of 300." 

The remaining militia were already under orders 
from General Schuyler to join the main army, but 
on the report of the Tory raid it was immediately 
resolved^® by the Committee ''that they be detained 
in Town, and that a Watch of 25 Men be kept up Day 
and Night." 

The report that another raid was imminent was 
brought to the Committee on the next day, and in the 
afternoon Jacob Schermerhom, who had been sent 
out on scout duty, reported^" to the Board "that on 

16 Abraham I. Van Eps states (Pension Office Kecords W 25831) 
that he performed eight days' service under Captain Van Eps "when 
the Schenectady militia marched to Oriskany." Cornelius Bradt states 
(Pension Office Eecords W 18649) that while serving under Colonel 
Christopher Yates he went "with Major Arnold's division up the 
Mohawk Valley." While these references are rather meager, it appears 
evident that some of the Schenectady militia marched to the relief of 
Fort Stanwix. 

The 2d New York Line, under orders to march for the same pur- 
pose, sailed in sloops from FishkUl to Albany but had occasion to pro- 
ceed no further than Schenectady. Magazine of American History, 
December, 1881. 

17 Authorities have expressed the opinion that to St. Leger was 
assigned the most important part of the program with the most inade- 
quate means of carrying it out. 

18 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

19 lUd. 

20 Ibid. 



76 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

the 10th inst at Night [the Tories] lay at the House 
of a Thorns Morall and in the Morning went to one 
Nicholas Van Patten." A detail of Continental 
troops, who were in town, under Captain Childs and 
a number of the militia under Major Swits were 
immediately dispatched for the capture of the Tories, 
and on the twelfth turned over to the Committee 
eleven prisoners who had been taken with their arms 
and accoutrements.^^ 

The news of the successful outcome of General 
Arnold's relief expedition, whereby General Bur- 
goyne was deprived of the hope of reinforcements, 
coupled mth the news of the defeat of Colonel Baum 
at Bennington, depriving him of much needed sup- 
plies, wrought a complete change in public opinion. 
The attitude of the Tories became less threatening 
and in answer to the call from the Continental 
Congress regulars and militia hastened to join the 
rapidly increasing forces at Van Schaick's Island, 
whence the American army had fallen back after the 
first entrenchments at Stillwater, and it was at this 
time" that many^^ more of the Schenectady militia 

21 IMd. 

22 Pension Office Records, John J. Van Eps ; John DeGraff S 15090 ; 
Andrew Bearup W 16188; Peter Warren Cain W 16525; Samuel 
Kennedy W 20317. 

Official orders for all those not already in actual service to join the 
army under General Gates were sent to General Ten Broeck by Governor 
Clinton on September 18. 

23 That all the available men did not go, however, is shown from 
the fact that when, on October 16, the Albany Committee reported that 
"the enemy were coming up the North River with a number of ships," 
the Schenectady Board, in compliance with their request "to send down 
the Militia immediately," at once ordered that the request be complied 
with. The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 



THE CAMPAIGN OF 1777 77 

joined^* the ranks to remain with the army until the 
cuhnination of the campaign^^ in the surrender of 
Burgoyne.^® 

24 On September 25 it was reported in Schenectady that the American 
troops were surrounded by the British and that it was therefore ' ' folly ' ' 
for the militia to attempt to join them as they could not get through. 
The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

25 The failure of General Howe to co-operate with Burgoyne laid him 
open to severe criticism. It is now known, however (Life of William, 
Earl of Shelburne, I, 358 et seq.), that through the carelessness of 
Lord George Germaine the proper orders were never forwarded to him. 

26 After the surrender of General "Burgoyne a detachment of Schen- 
ectady militia under Colonel Wemple was detailed for guard duty and 
escorted General Poor's brigade part way to Esopus. They did not, 
however, complete the journey, but were ordered home after a few days' 
service. Pension Office Kecords, John J. Van Eps. 



CHAPTER XIII 

THE WINTER OF 1777-1778. A TORY PLOT. 

SCHENECTADY DECLARES A 

GRIEVANCE 

The winter of 1777-1778 seems on the whale to 
have passed quietly in Schenectady, although about 
the middle of December the town was visited by a 
disastrous fire which caused considerable suffering to 
several families, for the relief of whom committees 
were appointed to solicit contributions throughout the 
Schenectady District, the city of Albany and Tryon 
County.^ 

The attention of the Committee of Safety was for 
the most part given over to the settling of petty dis- 
putes arising among the townspeople, to the hearing 
of charges brought against those considered un- 
friendly to the patriot cause and to the relief of 
the distressed condition which early in the winter 
had prevailed throughout the district, due to the 
scarcity of salt necessary for the proper preparation 
of the winter's supply of meat.^ 

Details of the militia^ stood guard at the pickets in 

1 The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety. 

2 Ibid. 

3 The return of General Ten Broeck's brigade, dated February 19, 
1778, credits Colonel Wemple's regiment with four hundred men, of 
whom thirty-three were officers. Public Papers of George Clinton, II, 
780. 



THE WINTER OF 1777-1778 79 

their regular turns and further protection was 
afforded the town by the presence* of a detachment 
of Colonel Van Schaick's regiment which was gar- 
risoned here. 

Although the activities of the Tories had received 
somewhat of a check by reason of the success of the 
American arms the previous fall, they did not long 
remain inactive and late in the winter rumors of a 
plot wide in its scope reached the state authorities/ 

That agents connected with the conspiracy were 
working among the many *' disaffected persons," who 
were now included among the inhabitants of Sche- 
nectady, was early suspected, and the Marquis de 
Lafayette who had been sent to make a personal 
investigation reported^ to the Albany Committee on 
March 3 that the suspicions were ''very far from 
groundless." "A soldier who I think is a Spy," 
continues the report, "has been taken up and exam- 
ined by me Yesterday. It has been impossible to 
obtain a true Confession from that Man, but I can 
however assure you that there is a Conspiracy and an 
important one. Major Carleton, General's own 
Nephew, was some days ago disguised in this Town 
and making preparations — two parties are gone on 
after him but I question much if they will be suc- 
cessful. ' ' 

Dissatisfaction it would seem was at this time quite 
as prevalent in Schenectady as disaffection. Many 
of the townspeople felt that they had just causes for 
complaint against the treatment accorded them by 
the authorities and on March 20 in the hopes that 

4 Public Papers of George Clinton, III, 108, 
B Hid., II, 248 et seq. 
6 Ihid., p. 852. 



80 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

through their intercession redress might be obtained, 
the whole matter was placed before the Committee of 
Safety in the form of the following petition^ signed 
by fifty-five of the inhabitants, which number included 
not a few of the more prominent militia officers: 

Gentlemen, We the Inhabitants of this town & Distract 
beg leave to Lay before you a state of Grievences which (in 
our opinions) we have Just cause to Complain of, and as 
you are appointed by us to the Care and management of the 
public affairs in this District, It is through your Means we 
Look for and Expect Redress. 

In the first place you know that a Barracks^ was BuUt 
Here for the Reception of Such Troops as might be ordered 
Here from time to time, in order that the Inhabitants Should 
be free from the Trouble and expence of Having them 
billited on them; that notwithstanding this. Last fall the 
Barrecks was converted into an HospitaP and the troops 
to be quartered here was billeted on us, which have been 
Both troublesom and finding them with firewood attended 
with a Great deal of Expence, which we have not had the 
Least allowance for but hope you will indevour to procure 
us a proper Consederation for it. 

Secondly, the director of the Hospital appointed a Com- 
misary,^" and under him a Number of other officers for that 

7 Ihid., Ill, 63. 

8 See chapter X, pp. 62-63. 

9 A burying ground was in the rear about halfway between Union 
and Liberty Streets. From this burying ground in November, 1854, 
were exhumed the remains of fifty-seven American soldiers. These 
remains were reinterred in Vale Cemetery with military honors in August,^ 
1859, and the spot where they rest is marked by an imposing monument 
erected by the citizens of Schenectady. 

10 John Duncan. On October 27, 1777, the townspeople had petitioned 
for his removal and on November 7 the Schenectady Committee was 
advised of his resignation. The Minutes of the Schenectady Committee 
of Safety. 



TEE WINTER OF 1777-1778 81 

Department, who are a part disafaeted persons to the States, 
which we look to be both Verry ungenerous and unjust to 
appoint Enemys to the Country to posts of profits while so 
many true friends are in want of bread; and altho the Sick 
have been entirely removed from the hospital Some Con- 
sederable time ago, a Doctor Commesarry, Deputy Com- 
messary and their attendents are still keep in pay, which we 
look upon to be intirely a waste of the public money, and as 
we Expect to Bear a part of the public Expence we Cannot 
help Complaining of this abuse and hope that they may be 
Emediately Discharged. 

Thirdly, that Great partiallity hath hetherto Been Shewen 
to the Inhabitants of Albany, apointing them in preference 
to us to posts and places in the public Service, tho the far 
greatest parte of the Citizens of Albany are in Some public 
posts, there is only three Inhabitants of this Town Imployed 
in public Services (Exclusive of Soldiers) ; That they not 
Settesfyed with filling all the posts in Albany with their 
own friends but have Sent a Commisary and Commisary's 
Clark here to act, while we are Confident we have people 
Enough Capable to fill Such places. 

That Upon all Ocations when the Melitia is Called out, 
we have Sent three men to the field for one that the City 
of Albany have done, they being Chiefly Exempt By the 
public Employment they hold; and we have been obliged 
to do their duty; this we look upon to be unjust and must 
beg Leave to tell you that we Expect a more Equatable Dis- 
tribution of public offices will be made; That we at all times 
are willing to do our part of the public Service, providing 
we Can Keep Some proportion of the public Benefit, and 
unless we can have that, we disviee you will not call on us 
for any further Services, but on those who are filling their 
pockets while many of us are in Dainger of Suffering for want. 

Fourthly, that one" of the three Gentlemen in this town 
imployed in the public Service, hold no less than four posts 

11 Henry Glen is probably the one referred to. 



82 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

viz A.D. Quarter Master General, D.Commisary, D.Barrack 
Master, D.Forrage Master, which we look upon to be unjust 
for so many posts to be given to one man while so many 
are in want and have none at all. 

Gentlemen These are the Grevenees we at present Complain 
of and in full assurance that they will be redressed as far as 
in your superior Judgment they ought and in your power 
to procure we Remain. 

Gentlemen with the Greatest Respect your most humble 
Sarvants. 

The petition was forwarded^^ to Governor Clinton 
on the twenty-fourth and some three weeks later his 
answer was received. "Be pleased to assure them," 
he wrote^^ in part, ''that as far as I have anything to 
do in the Distribution of Offices, the People of the 
Town of Schenectady shall equally participate with 
the People of Albany, or of any other part of the 
State, and that my Orders shall never charge them 
with more than their due Proportion of Military Duty. 
As to the appointments in the Continental Line, in 
which tho' there may have been Partiality, it is out 
of my Power to correct it, but as to any abuses which 
have been committed by the Staff of the army on 
proper Complaint & Proof the Persons injured will be 
redressed and the Offenders punished." 

12 Public Papers of George Clinton, III, 78. 

13 Ibid, p. 165. 



CHAPTER XIV 

THE DECISION OF THE INDIANS. THE 
RAIDS OF 1778 

Although the Indians had taken a more or less 
prominent part on the side of the British in the 
military movements of the year 1777, it was hoped 
that they might still be induced to assume a position 
of neutrality, and with this in view a council was 
held at Johnstown on March 9, 1778, under the direc- 
tion of the Northern Department. So far as obtain- 
ing pledges was concerned the meeting was without 
avail, the only word from the Senecas, who did not 
even send a representative, being a message^ affect- 
ing great surprise "that while [their] tomahawks 
were sticking in their heads, their wounds bleeding, 
and their eyes streaming with tears for the loss^ of 
their friends at German Flats the commissioners 
should think of inviting them to a treaty." And so 
it was brought about that prompted by a desire for 
personal vengeance the Indians, with the exception 
of the Oneidas and a few Tuscaroras, now definitely 
cast their lot with the British, soon to commence, 
with the co-operation of the Tories, that border war- 
fare which in the next five years was to bring desola- 
tion to many a once fertile and prosperous section. 

1 William L. Stone, Life of Joseph Brant, I, 305. 

2 The Indian loss at Oriskany was about one hundred men, of whom 
thirty-six were Senecas. 



84 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

While in the raids that were to follow the action 
of the Indians was prompted by one motive, another 
of real strategic value seems to have governed the 
movements of their allies, for these border cam- 
paigns bear a direct relation to the main conflict 
inasmuch as it was hoped that to repel them Con- 
tinental forces would be diverted,^ thereby weakening 
more important points. 

Although since the opening of spring* the fron- 
tiers had been in a constant state of alarm in antici- 
pation^ of Indian and Tory raids, it was not until 
May 30 that the culmination of the first movement 
in force occurred. On that day Joseph Brant, at the 
head of a force of from three hundred to four hun- 
dred men, attacked the little settlement of Cobleskill." 

Christopher Yates writing to Colonel Wemple 
from Schoharie on the same day reported^ ''the 
people in great disorder, the buildings all destroyed." 
"We have this afternoon received information," con- 
tinues the letter, ''that a party far Superior to that 
of Cobuskill, or perhaps them joined with the other, 
are to come upon Scoharie in order to destroy the 

3 Their end in this particular was not accomplished, the defense of 
the frontier falling therefore almost entirely upon the militia. 

4 In March a company of artificers, enlisted in Schenectady and 
commanded by Jacob Vrooman as master workman, left for Saratoga, 
where they remained until near the first of December engaged in build- 
ing barracks and batteaux and in rebuilding the mills and dwelling- 
house of General Schuyler, which had been burned by the British the 
year before. Pension Office Eecords, Benjamin Van Vleck E 10897. 

5 In April a detail of one hundred and twenty -five of the militia 
and several Indians under Colonel Abraham Wemple went out on scout 
duty to Beverdam to apprehend some Tories from Unadilla and else- 
where. Pension Office Eecords, James Barhydt S 12948. 

« Public Papers of George Clinton, III, 377. 
7 JUd., p. 378. 



THE DECISION OF THE INDIANS 85 

whole." The news of the attack was received in 
Albany the next morning while the people were at 
church, and although application was made to Gen- 
eral Ten Broeck for the immediate ordering out of 
the militia he refused to do so until church was over 
''for fear," he said,^ ''of frightening the Town into 
fits." 

Accompanying the troops, who with Colonel 
Wemple in command, finally set out for Schoharie 
was a detachment of one hundred and nineteen of the 
Schenectady militia.® On June 2 Colonel Wemple 
reported" to General Ten Broeck from Schoharie that 
he had that morning sent a detail of one hundred 
and fifty men under Lieutenant-Colonel Yates to 
Cobleskill, but that after they had been gone some 
time he had received information of a large party 
coming down to destroy the settlement of Brakea- 
bean and had therefore ordered them to return to 
the upper settlement at Schoharie where he him- 
self would reinforce them. "If I am lucky enough 
to meet them [the enemy]," continues the letter, "I 
hope to give them a trimming." On June 6 he again 
reported ^^ in part as follows : 

I have Buried the dead at Cobuskill, which was 14 in 
number; found five more burnt in the ruins of the House 
of one Yurry Waiaer, where the engagement has been; they 
were Butchered in a most inhuman manner ; burnt 10 Houses 
and Barns, Horses, Cows, Sheep, etc., lay dead all over the 
fields. 



8 Ibid., p, 379. 

9 Hid., p. 383. 

10 lUd. 

11 lUd., p. 413. 



86 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

With the actual appearance of the enemy the alarm 
on the frontiers became the more acute and to the 
many appeals for assistance that were forwarded to 
Governor Clinton there was added on June 15 the 
foUowing^^ plea from the Committee at Schenectady: 

Honoured Sir, The distressed situation of Tryon County, 
Schoharie and indeed the whole of our western Frontiers, 
seem to call so loud for relief that we think we should be 
wanting ia our duty, if we did not acquaint your Excellency, 
of the real danger our Frontiers are in; Your Excellency 
may depend on it, that it is no sham to frighten the people, 
but a thing in real existence, for the people are flying and 
crowding into this town in great numbers, and by the best 
information the enemy are really round about there, and 
are determined to destroy, and bum up that whole country, 
and unless soon relieved we undoubtedly believe they will 
affect it, and the loss that will arise therefrom to the unhappy 
individuals of that part of the country will be nothing, in 
comparison to the loss of the United States, as it is one of 
our principal wheat countrys. 

Governor Clinton replied^^ to the letter from the 
Committee on June 18, detailing ^he steps that had 
already been taken toward meeting the danger that 
threatened the settlers on the frontiers. '' Consider- 
ing the militia as the only force whose services I can 
command," he added, "more could not have been 
done by me for their protection." 

In spite of the many urgent pleas made to the 
authorities for Continental troops to protect the 
frontiers, no effective measures had yet been taken. 
*'If they do not come soon," wrote" General Ten 

i2J6id, p. 459. 
i^IUd., p. 467. 
14 Ibid., p. 562. 



TEE DECISION OF THE INDIANS 87 

Broeck in reporting the criticalness of the situation 
to Governor Clinton on July 20, following the news 
of Brant's raid on Springfield and Andrustown, "I 
dread the Consequences — it is now harvest & it is 
with the utmost difficulty I get the militia to turn 
out — the number now Ordered out (Exclusive of 
Col. Wemple's Eegt.^^) is ab't 700 men; about 
600 were Ordered the 12th June & only ab't 220 did 
come. What number I shall get now is Impossible 
for me to tell. I shall do everything in my power." 
The next movement by the enemy in force culmi- 
nated early in July in the massacre of Wyoming in 
the valley of the Susquehanna, to be followed in the 
middle of September^* by Brant's long-expected raid 
on German Flats. News of the disaster attending 
the enemy's appearance in the Mohawk Valley 
reached General Ten Broeck at Albany on the eight- 
eenth, and almost immediately Colonel Wemple's 
regiment set out for the relief of the quarter attacked, 

15 The whole of Colonel Wemple 's regiment was ordered to Scho- 
harie on July 19. Public Papers of George Clinton, III, 563. On 
August 27 forty-four men from this regiment were reported as sta- 
tioned there. Hid., p. 736. 

16 During the interim the available military force of Schenectady was 
augmented by the formation of a company of "Associated Exempts" 
numbering fifty men, imder Captain Jacob Schermerhorn, with Isaac 
Glen as first lieutenant and Cornelius A. Van Slyck as second lieu- 
tenant. This company was organized under a state law which recom- 
mended that those men who had heretofore held commissions form 
themselves into companies, as well as those who were over fifty years 
of age and thereby exempt from militia duty. Public Papers of 
George Clinton, III, 590. Service in the Exempts was entirely volun- 
tary and those who enrolled engaged to provide themselves with proper 
arms, accoutrements and ammunition, "adding a pledge that on alarm 
they would repair to their appointed rendezvous, and when drafts were 
made on the militia, they would contribute their portion of men to be 
commanded by their own officers." 



88 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

soon to return home, however, as the enemy had on 
their arrival retreated too far to render pursuit by 
the militia advisable. ^^ 

On November 11 the enemy under Captain Walter 
Butler fell upon the settlement of Cherry Valley. 
The success of the attack, which had been instigated 
as a means of retaliation for the vigorous offensive 
measures instituted by the American forces the 
month before, resulting in the destruction of Una- 
dilla and Oghwaga, was the more lamentable as 
repeated and timely warnings had been given regard- 
ing the enemy's intentions. 

On receipt of the news of the attack the militia 
were again ordered out.^^ ''Altho my Letter of the 
13th and General Ten Broeck's of the 16th give no 
great Credit to the Militia in General," wrote^^ Gen- 
eral Hand to Governor Clinton of the eighteenth, '*! 
think it my Duty to acquaint your Excellency that 
Col. Wemple's Schenectady Militia, (a very respect- 
able Body of Men) turned out with much Chearful- 
ness, tho the remoteness of their Situation prevented 
their answering the wished for purposes." 

Many of the inhabitants of Cherry Valley who 
were fortunate enough to have escaped from the mas- 
sacre^" with their lives, although they lost all else, 
at once hastened to Schenectady^^ ''in a Dolefull, 
Lamentable, and Helpless Condition, Destitute 

17 Public Papers of George Clinton, IV, 54, 80, 82. 

18 Ibid., p. 293. 

19 Ibid., p. 298. 

20 A younger son who was in school at Schenectady was the only 
survivor of the family of Eobert Wells, who, with his wife, mother, 
brother, sister, three children and three servants, lost his life in the 
massacre. 

21 Public Papers of George Clinton, IV, 334. 



THE DECISION OF THE INDIANS 89 

(many of them) of meat, money and Cloathing, 
Either for Back or Bed."-^ For the relief of these 
refugees General Hand was appealed to from Sche- 
nectady on the twenty-sixth, the petitioners humbly 
praying^^ that their distressed condition be given 
serious consideration and that some means be devised 
whereby they might be supplied with provisions, 
wood and ''sufficient clothing to cover them from the 
inclemency of the weather." 

22 Hid., pp. 338-339. 

23 lUd., p. 339. 



CHAPTER XV 

STEPS TAKEN TO PROTECT THE FRONTIER. 
SULLIVAN'S CAMPAIGN 

During the winter (1778-1779) roving bands of 
Indians and Tories kept the settlers on the frontiers 
in constant alarm. 

In the spring the first active steps that had yet 
been taken looking toward an adequate protection of 
the frontiers were embodied in an act of the State 
Legislature which provided for the raising of a force 
of one thousand men^ for this purpose. The men 
drafted were to continue in the service until the 
following January and were to be allowed the same 
pay and rations as the Continental army. For the 
force to be raised the schedule called for nineteen 
men^ to be drafted from Colonel Wemple's regiment. 

While the proposed force was slowly being enrolled, 
the Continental Congress, realizing the seriousness 
of the situation, decided to itself take the matter in 
hand, and to General Washington was given the direc- 
tion of the campaign which aimed not only at checking 
the raids but also at the total destruction and devas- 
tation of the settlements of the raiders and the capture 
of as many of the enemy as possible. 

1 A greater part of this force was later requisitioned by Congress to 
fill up the regiments of the New York Continental Line. 
2 Public Papers of George Clinton, V, 167. 



SULLIVAN'S CAMPAIGN 91 

The plan of Sullivan's campaign as adopted called 
for one division under General Sullivan to proceed 
by way of the Susquehanna River and a second 
under General James Clinton to proceed up the 
Mohawk from Schenectady to Canajoharie, crossing 
to Otsego Lake, thence down the Susquehanna, the 
two divisions joining at Tioga Point. 

Under the direction of Henry Glen work was early 
actively undertaken to prepare and assemble at 
Schenectady the necessary provisions and stores in 
anticipation of the arrival of Clinton's division.^ 
Schenectady seems to have been chosen for the con- 
centration of the supplies rather than Canajoharie 
for the reason that there were no proper storehouses 
at the latter place and further because it was felt 
that at Schenectady there would be less likelihood of 
their being the object of an attack on the part of 
the enemy.* 

On May 28 General Clinton reported to "Washing- 
ton that a quantity of provision had been success- 
fully collected, and further that there were one 
hundred batteaux assembled ready to be loaded on 
the shortest notice.^ 

While these preparations were going on, small 
bodies of Indians appearing simultaneously in differ- 
ent quarters again necessitated the calling out of the 
militia. General Clinton reported the matter to his 
brother on April 28 in part as follows :® 

3 Pension Office Kecords, David Van Derheyden W 6373, 
* James Clinton to Washington, Albany, May 28, 1779. Washington 
Papers, Library of Congress. 
5 lUd. 
e Public Papers of George Clinton, IV, 771. 



92 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



The alarm was general thro' the whole Country, and I 
believe in a few days Schenectady woud have been the 
Frontier of the State, if it had not been for the appearance 
of the Troops, which I immediately marched up, consisting 
of that part of Gansevoort's Regt., which was in town, and 
the Schenectady Militia, amounting in the whole to about 
two hundred, with which I proceeded as far as Johnstown, 
where I was joined by a number of the Tryon County Militia 
who turned out chearfuUy on the occasion. 

*' [As] the only method left of restoring the Inhabi- 
tants to their former Tranquility," General Clinton 
determined^ to erect a blockhouse at Sacandaga. To 
Colonel Gansevoort^ was intrusted the duty of carry- 
ing out the orders and a detail of the Schenectady 
militia was ordered out to assist in the work.^ 

On June 15 General Clinton reported^" that the one 
hundred boats" at Schenectady had been loaded and 
were already on their way up the Mohawk. "I have 
ordered one hundred more Boats to be had in readi- 
ness immediately," continues the report, ''as the 
Genl. has ordered me to embark all the Troops, and 
take no P. Horses," 

Under the direction of the Committee of Safety 
and under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Yates 

7 IMd. This had been suggested to Governor Clinton by Jellis Fonda. 
Public Papers of George Clinton, IV, 670. 

8 Colonel Peter Gansevoort of the 3d New York Line. He had been 
in command at Fort Stanwix when besieged by St. Leger. 

9 Pension Office Records, John B. Veeder E 10927; John DeGraff; 
Ephraim Bradt W 16860. 

10 Public Papers of George Clinton, V, 86. 

11 They were escorted by the 3d New York Line and a detachment 
under Colonel Butler. 



SULLIVAN'S CAMPAIGN 93 

many of the Schenectady militia were employed in 
the embarkation of Clinton's brigade, and not a 
few, as volunteers, in the conveying of the baggage 
and supplies of the army up the Mohawk. Some of 
the men also accompanied the division on its march 
and on fatigue duty assisted in cutting the road 
through to Otsego Lake and in the erection of the 
dam necessary to transfer the batteaux to the Sus- 
quehanna Eiver.^^ 

The devastation and havoc wrought by the Ameri- 
can forces as they advanced through the Indian 
country fulfilled to the letter the instructions of 
Congress and yet how ineffectual were these meas- 
ures in the attainment of the main object of the 
expedition is amply shown by the subsequent history 
of the frontiers. Neither were the Indians subdued 
nor the prime movers in their raids captured, and 
the blackened ruins of their homes served only to 
further incite them to measures of retaliation. 
Scarcely had Sullivan returned when reports of 
murders committed by roving bands of Indians were 
borne to the authorities, and on October 25, Colonel 
Van Dyck, writing from Fort Schuyler, reported^^ a 
plan of the "Regulars" to lay siege to that post 
while the Indians were in the meantime destroying 
''the Country down as far as Schenectady." 

While the reported plan did not mature, suflBcient 
alarm was caused to warrant the militia being kept 
almost constantly on duty during the fall, details 
from Colonel Wemple's regiment forming part of the 

12 Pension Office Eeeords, Simon J. Vrooman W 6370; James Barhydt 
S 12948. 

13 Public Papers of George Clinton, V, 330. 



94 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

garrison^* of many of the forts to the westward and 
acting as guards for the farmers in the vicinity while 
they gathered their harvests. 

14 On November 19 §ighty men from Colonel Wemple 's regiment, ten 
of whom were "Exempts," were on duty at Fort Paris, Public Papers 
of George Clinton, V, 365. Details at Fort Hunter and Fort Plank, 
Pension Office Eecords, Daniel McMichael S 13885; Eichard Van Vran- 
ken S 11623; Matthew DeGarmo S 23599. Details at Schoharie, Pen- 
sion Office Eecords, Gerrit Schermerhorn S 14422; John DeGraff S 
15090; George Passage E 7889. 



CHAPTER XVI 
THE MOHAWK VALLEY LAID WASTE 

The enemy did not wait until spring to again com- 
mence their activities. In February, 1780, a small 
band effected some damage at German Flats, in 
March a settlement to the north of Palatine sustained 
a like invasion, and early in April came news of 
Brant's raid on Harpersfield. 

Eeports of minor raids, rumors of intended move- 
ments by the enemy on a large scale, actual suffer- 
ing on the part of the settlers for want of provisions, 
depreciation in Continental currency which had by 
now become practically worthless, and the difficul- 
ties of affording a semblance of protection by rein- 
forcing the meager garrisons already posted, due to 
the impossibility of obtaining supplies for the militia, 
the only force available for this service, had by May 
brought about a most lamentable condition on the 
frontiers. As a result of this condition the more 
remote settlements were reported as daily breaking 
up and Colonel Van Schaick was led to express^ the 
fear that unless some speedy and effectual measures 
were taken to inspire the desponding people with 
confidence, Schenectady would in all probability soon 
be the frontier to the westward. 

1 To Governor Clinton, May 17, 1780. Public Papers of George 
Clinton, V, 715. He expressed the same view to General Washington a 
few days later. Washington Papers, Library of Congress. 



96 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

At daybreak on the morning of May 22 the much 
feared attack of the enemy materialized, Sir John 
Johnson appearing on the Mohawk Eiver at Tribes 
Hill with a strong force^ of Indians and whites. 
From Tribes Hill the enemy proceeded westward 
''burning the Houses and Barns of the Inhabitants 
and putting to Death every Male capable of bearing 
arms.'" 

''Collo. Fisher* is mortally wounded," reported^ 
Colonel John Harper from Johnstown on the same 
day, ''and his two^ Brothers killed, [and] old Mr. 
Douw Fonda^ with seven others." 

Of the Schenectady militia who had marched under 
Colonel Wemple "on the first alarm" some were 
almost immediately obliged to return for want of 
provisions.^ The remainder, however, hastened 
towards Johnstown and, joined by troops from Fort 

2 Four hundred whites and two hundred Indians. 

3 Public Papers of George Clinton, V, 743. 

* Frederick Visscher (Fisher), a colonel in the Tryon County Militia. 
He had removed his famUy to Schenectady for safety's sake a few 
days before. Having been brought down by a tomahawk, scalped and 
left for dead by the raiders he subsequently recovered consciousness 
and managed to escape from the burning house he had so gallantly 
helped to defend. With the aid of a negro slave belonging to one of 
the neighbors Colonel Visscher managed to reach friends, who at once 
sent him to Schenectady by canoe. Here he received medical attention 
and subsequently recovered from his wounds. 

5 Public Papers of George Clinton, V, 737. 

6 John and Harman. They with Colonel Visscher were the sole 
defenders of the family homestead where the attack occurred. 

7 He had removed from Schenectady and settled at Caughnawaga 
(Fonda) about the year 1751. An account of his murder may be 
found in Jeptha E. Simms, Frontiersmen of New York, II, 339. 

8 Public Papers of George Clinton, V, 744. Pension Office Eecords, 
Philip Viele E 10947. 



THE MOHAWK VALLEY LAID WASTE 97 

Hunter^ under Colonel Harper^" and others under 
Colonel Volkert Vedder," swelling their force to 
about four hundred and fifty men, determined to 
engage the enemy should Sir John, who had rendez- 
voused there, show any disposition to fight/^ 

Sir John, although his force, swelled by the addi- 
tion of many Tories who had hastened to join him, 
now outnumbered the American troops about two to 
one, did not offer an engagement, but almost imme- 
diately withdrew and, eluding the troops which 
Governor Clinton sent to intercept him, made his 
way safely back to Canada." 

The opportunity afforded by the dispirited con- 
dition of soldiers and settlers alike had early been 
seized upon by the British, who with no small success 
endeavored through their emissaries to stir up 
mutinies in the ranks of the main army or induce 
those holding Tory sentiments to take up arms in 
their behalf. 

Many Tories had joined Sir John Johnson during 
his raid, and from time to time small bands from 
Albany and Try on counties left to join the enemy. 
That a large party so inclined were assembled at 
Beaverdam was reported^* to the Schenectady Com- 

9 This fort stood a short distance east of the Schoharie Creek near 
its confluence with the Mohawk Eiver, 

10 Colonel John Harper of the Levies. 

11 His name was spelled both Vedder and Veeder. He was lieu- 
tenant-colonel of the 5th Albany County and later of the 3d Tryon 
County Militia. 

12 Public Papers of George Clinton, V, 743. 

13 He took with him the family silver which had been buried at the 
time of his departure in 1776. 

14 Public Papers of George Clinton, VI, 30. 



98 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

mittee on July 18. Colonel Vrooman^^ at Schoharie 
was at once apprised^® of the fact that he might 
order out a detachment in an endeavor to intercept 
them, while in Schenectady a party was at once 
organized^'^ for the same purpose. Although the 
Schenectady detachment after having marched all 
night arrived at the rendezvous at daybreak, they 
were successful in securing but three of the band who 
had secreted themselves in a barn, while the main 
body, having undoubtedly been alarmed, succeeded in 
making their escape.^* 

Late in July the enemy under Joseph Brant ap- 
peared in force before Fort Schuyler. This move- 
ment was probably a feint, for while the troops 
were hastening to the defense of the post, leaving the 
lower valley without adequate means of protection. 
Brant and his followers quietly withdrew and, 
advancing by way of the Unadilla and Susquehanna 
Eivers on August 2, fell upon Canajoharie. 

The Albany and Schenectady militia, who had 
turned out with alacrity^^ under orders previously 
given, had just gone into camp at Caughnawaga^" 
opposite Mr. Frey's at about eleven o'clock on the 
morning of the second, when they were alarmed by 
the heavy smoke ''between John Abeails and Fort 
Plank about four miles distant. ' '^^ 

"Instantly I did order both Regiments to be 

15 Peter Vrooman, colonel of the 15tli Albany County Militia. 

16 Public Papers of George Clinton, VI, 31. 

17 Hid. 

18 nid. 

19 lUd., p. 79. 

20 Now Fonda, Montgomery County. 

21 Public Papers of George Clinton, VI, 80. 



THE MOHAWK VALLEY LAID WASTE 99 

formed," reported" Colonel Wemple in his dispatch 
to General Ten Broeck, ''& proceed against the 
Enemy, who were at that time in their full Carear 
and tho our Numbers were not equal, yet I can assure 
you I should be void of Justice if I omitted mention- 
ing their Prudence and cool behavior without Distinc- 
tion to all Eancks. An Altho they had been in full 
march since early in the morning they came up with 
such Vigor that the Enemy on our approach gave way 
& tho in sight we had no opportunity to give them 
Battle they retired in the usual way." 

''Such a Scean as we beheld since we left the 
River," reads another section of the report, "pass- 
ing dead Bodies of Men & Children most cruelly mur- 
dered, is not possible to be described. I cannot ascer- 
tain at present the Number of poor Inhabitants 
killed and missing but believe the Loss considerable 
as the People were all at work in the Fields. . . . 
Some Persons pretend to say not less than one hun- 
dred dwelling House are burnt." 

On August 21 Colonel Goose Van Schaick, writing^^ 
to General Washington from Albany, confirmed the 
details of the withdrawal of Brant from Fort Schuy- 
ler and of the attack on Canajoharie. ''From 
thence," continued the letter, "they returned 
towards the susquahanna, & in a few days after made 
a Descent on Schohary; here they burnt twelve 
Houses, & have by information taken and killed a 
larger number of the Inhabitants than at the former 
place, & it is expected the remainder of Schohary 
will share the same fate. The Indians are seen daily 

22 lUd. 

23 Washington Papers, Library of Congress. 



100 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

in small parties, & take prisoners & Scalps, Schenec- 
tady is threatened & the Inhabitants are moving their 
effects to Albany with all dispatch seeing no appear- 
ance of support, & numbers going off to the enemy 
daily." 

In England Riverton's Royal Gazette told of the 
successful progress of the expedition. "The Indians 
have laid waste the whole country," reads its issue^* 
of September 23, *'the Tory houses excepted, down 
to Schenectady, where some rebels are at work throw- 
ing up works to oppose the progress of the British 
troops and our Indian allies. The rebel women and 
children have retired to Albany." 

24 Franklin B. Hough, The Northern Invasion of October, 1780, p. 81. 



CHAPTER XVII 

THE EAIDS ON BALLSTON AND THE SCHO- 
HARIE SETTLEMENTS 

Late in August word was brought to the authori- 
ties in Albany that another raid along the Valley 
was being contemplated by the enemy. Sir John 
Johnson was reported to be in command and with 
the two thousand men under him was to strike first 
at Stone Arabia. From Schenectady scouts were 
kept continually out, and here General Van Rens- 
selaer^ took up his headquarters so that in case the 
accounts were found to be true he might in person 
collect troops to repel the invasion.^ 

On September 4 General Van Rensselaer reported* 
to Governor Clinton from Fort Rensselaer* that 
small parties of the enemy were frequently seen on 
the frontiers, although the reports of their intentions 
were still vague and uncertain. The militia were 
already under orders to be in readiness to march at 
a moment's notice as soon as the advance of the 
enemy was reported and on September 8 Colonel 
William Malcolm, under orders to march to the front, 

1 On June 29, 1780, the Albany militia was ordered to be divided 
into two brigades and to General Robert Van Eensselaer was given the 
command of the Second Brigade. 

2 Public Papers of George Clinton, VT, 136. 
^rbid., p. 169. 

4 StiU standing in the village of Canajoharie and used as a museum. 



102 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

encamped near Albany with liis brigade of State 
Levies^ raised to reinforce the troops on the frontiers. 

*'I find but very few Persons here which manifest a 
Disposition to forward the Service," Colonel Malcolm 
wrote* to Washington, ''although they express great 
Apprehensions about the Indians." 

'*I send forward one Regiment Tomorrow," con- 
tinued the letter, "they go entirely upon the Prospect 
of obtaining Provisions from the Country — there is 
no Magazine at Schenectady^ — not one Ration." 

On October 12 word^ reached Albany that on the 
eighth Sir John Johnson, Butler and Brant were at 
Oneida on their way to Stone Arabia and ultimately 
Fort Schuyler. From the north came information' 
that a second expedition under Major Christopher 
Carleton had already taken possession of Fort Ann 
and that Fort George was threatened. 

On the night of October 16, the settlement of Balls- 
ton^° was attacked. The enemy, which comprised a 

5 In August five hundred Massachusetts Levies were detailed to 
defend the New York frontiers and on the eleventh one hundred of 
them were reported in Schenectady on their way to Tryon County. On 
March 11, 1780, a law was passed in New York State to raise men 
for the same purpose. Of the twenty-nine men required from Colonel 
Wemple's regiment under this act twenty-two had been enrolled on 
August 10, twenty of whom were on duty at West Point and two at 
Albany, 

« Washington Papers, Library of Congress. 

7 Schenectady had been a regular army post until the spring of 
1780, but on March 16 orders were transmitted by the Board of War 
at Philadelphia to discontinue this post together with certain others 
because of the cost of maintenance. Public Papers of George Clinton, 
V, 697. 

8 Public Papers of George Clinton, VT, 288. 

9 Ibid. 

10 The sources of material used in connection with the raid on Balls- 



TEE RAIDS ON BALLSTON 103 

detachment" from Major Carleton's division, con- 
sisted of British regulars, Tories and Indians and was 
under the command of Major John Munro, a former 
merchant of Schenectady. It is believed that the 
original intention of the enemy was to surprise 
Schenectady but that possibly due to some informa- 
tion obtained through their scouts they decided to 
proceed no further than Ballston. 

A fort built of oak logs surrounded by a stockade 
comprised the defenses of the settlement. This fort 
had a few days before been garrisoned by a small 
detachment of Schenectady militia, and perhaps fear- 
ful lest they be unable to effect a surprise complete 
enough to insure its capture, this post was carefully 
avoided by the enemy, who instead directed their 
efforts to attacking some of the exposed houses. One 
man killed, one wounded and the capture of twenty- 
two prisoners whom the enemy took with them as 
they hastily withdrew^- bore witness to the success 
of the expedition. 

The approach^* of Sir John Johnson on the Scho- 
harie settlements was almost simultaneous with 
Munro 's raid on Ballston, for early on the morning 
of the seventeenth his forces were discovered^* pass- 
ton are: Jeptha E. Simms, The Frontiersmen of New York, II, 413; 
Franklin B. Hough, The Northern Invasion of October, 1780, p. 45. 

11 About two hundred strong. 

12 On news of the raid a detachment from Schenectady set out in 
pursuit of the enemy. Pension Office Eecords, David Van Derheyden 
W 6373; John N. Marcellus W 26232; George Passage R 7989. 

13 It is now considered that this second invasion of Sir John John- 
son was part of a well-defined plan revolving about the surrender of 
West Point by Benedict Arnold. 

14 Public Papers of George Clinton, VT, 303. 



104 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

ing the Upper Fort.^^ No attempt was made to 
attack this position, the enemy, finding themselves 
discovered, devoting themselves instead to burning 
whatever buildings they came upon as they made 
their way toward the Middle Fort.^^ Here they met 
with some resistance" and finding that a display of 
their force was not sufficient to induce the garrison 
to capitulate, the enemy about three o'clock in the 
afternoon continued their march down the Valley and, 
passing the Lower Fort,^^ burning and pillaging as 
they proceeded, went into camp some six miles below. 
Word of the enemy's presence at Schoharie reached 
Albany about noon on the seventeenth and General 
Van Rensselaer at once set out for Schenectady with 
such troops as he was able to rally for the pursuit.^^ 
When he arrived in Schenectady early in the evening 
the light of fires toward the lower end of Schoharie 

15 The Upper Fort was a one-story building enclosed by a stockade 
and breastwork. It stood about five miles southwest of the present 
village of Middleburg. 

16 The Middle Fort stood in the present village of Middleburg about 
one half mile northeast from the bridge. It comprised a two-story 
stone house owned by John Becker and was surrounded by a stockade of 
pickets with blockhouses mounted with smaU cannon on two of its 
angles. 

17 A detailed account of the refusal of the militia to obey the orders 
of Major Woolsey, the Continental commander, and the firing on the 
flag of truce by Timothy Murphy as the British came forward for a 
parley is to be found in Jeptha E. Simms, The Frontiersmen of New 
York, II, 424. 

18 The Lower Fort comprised a stockade with two blockhouses 
mounted with small cannon. This stockade surrounded the stone church 
now standing at Schoharie village, the home of the Schoharie County 
Historical Society, 

19 Minutes of the Court of Inquiry into the Conduct of Brigadier- 
General Van Kensselaer. Public Papers of George Clinton, VI, 692-703. 
These minutes are the source from which has been obtained most of 
the material relative to this campaign. 



THE RAIDS ON BALL8T0N 105 

bore evidence of the destruction being wrought by 
the enemy. A conference of the principal inhabitants 
was at once called and with them was discussed the 
practicability of procuring a number of horses and 
wagons by the next morning in order that such of the 
militia as could be collected might be sent forward 
with greater expedition. The attempt was made dur- 
ing the night, but a very inadequate number was 
secured. 

Henry Glen, the issuing commissary, was ap- 
proached on the matter of furnishing rations for the 
troops and later reported 'Hhat there was not a 
Sufficiency of Provisions of the meat kind to victual 
the Troops for a Day & a very small Quantity of 
Bread." Some cattle, however, destined for the 
garrison at Fort Schuyler, arriving opportunely, 
were ordered killed and all the ovens available were 
pressed into service that a sufficient quantity of 
bread might be baked during the night. 

Between nine and ten o'clock on the eighteenth the 
troops having received their provisions and being 
reinforced by members of Colonel Wemple's regi- 
ment, General Van Rensselaer left Schenectady and 
proceeded up the Valley, taking with him two field 
pieces on wheels which he had obtained at Schenec- 
tady. 

On the morning of the nineteenth Colonel Brown,^" 
who was in command at Fort Kayser,^^ left the post 
with a force of one hundred and thirty men under 
orders to join General Van Eensselaer. Marching 
south they later were surprised by Sir John John- 

20 Colonel John Brown, one of the bravest men on the frontier. He 
lost his life in the engagement that followed. 

21 To the north of Palatine Bridge. 



106 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

son's forces proceeding in the opposite direction and, 
outnumbered seven to one, disastrously defeated. 

General Van Rensselaer was apprised of the 
enemy's whereabouts and of the defeat of Colonel 
Brown by fugitive soldiers who had succeeded in 
making their escape from the field, and in the after- 
noon, overtaking the enemy, he forced the engagement 
known as the battle of Klock's Field. 

That Sir John and his forces were permitted to 
escape has always been a matter of regret, and 
although General Van Rensselaer has been severely 
blamed^^ for his failure to at once follow up the advan- 
tage gained, the Court of Inquiry convened for the 
purpose of investigating his action not only wholly 
exonerated him, but declared that his conduct *'was 
not only unexceptional, but such as became a good, 
active, faithful, prudent and spirited officer." 

Not a few of the Schenectady militia marched'^ as 
far as Herkimer in the effort to overtake the enemy 
and some were detailed^* as guards and batteaumen 
to bring by boat to Schenectady those of Colonel 
Brown's soldiers who had sustained injuries that their 
wounds might here be dressed under the direction^^ 
of Dr. Dirk Van Ingen. 

On October 29 Governor Clinton wrote^® to James 
Duane detailing the destruction that had been 
effected by the enemy. He estimated the loss at one 

22 Had Simms, Stone or Douglas Campbell had access to the Clinton 
Papers or to the Minutes of the Court of Inquiry their judgment would 
have been more favorable. 

23 Pension OflBice Eeeords, Simon J. Vrooman W 6370 ; John Van 
Eps W 27862. 

24 Pension Office Eeeords, Nicholas E. Bovie S 12275. 

25 Pension Office Eeeords, Henry H. Peek W 9219. 

26 Public Papers of George Clinton, VI, 345. 



THE RAIDS ON BALL8T0N 107 

hundred and fifty thousand bushels of wheat in addi- 
tion to other grain, forage and some two hundred 
buildings. ''Schenectady may now be said to become 
the limits of our western Frontier," continued the 
letter, ''the first Object worth a new Enterprise." 

The incursions of the enemy had so delayed the 
raising of troops intended to relieve the Levies sta- 
tioned at the various posts that late in October 
Governor Clinton decided to order forward details 
of the militia for this service, promising, however, 
that they would be relieved as soon as possible. In 
accordance with this decision Colonel Wemple was 
ordered" to dispatch seventy of his regiment to Fort 
Rensselaer, much to the alarm of the people in 
Schenectady, who on the twenty-fourth petitioned 
Governor Clinton that the order be reconsidered. 

"Whereas," reads the memorial,^^ "the present 
situation of this place is become a frontier Town, 
which we have reason to believe the Enemy aims to 
destroy, and which we your memorialist are a good 
deal concerned about, particularly when we Consider 
the Different Settlements round about us, if we turn 
our eyes to the north, we find a Settlement called 
Galloway, and another called Peasly, who are all ene- 
mies to the Country and even Balls Town a great 
part of them; To the southwest from us we have the 
Hellebergh, which are likewise mostly Tories, at 
which places the enemy may lay conceald untill they 
find an opportunity to destroy this place. And one 
half of our Regiment are joining to these Settlements. 

"We, your memorialist, therefore, humbly pray 
that your Excellency will take our Situation in Con- 

27 lUd., p. 333. 

28 lUd. 



108 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

sideration and grant that our Regiment may remain 
at Home to defend this place. And as Balls Town 
is likewise exposed to great Danger of an other attack 
of the enemy we lying nearest to them might on occa- 
sion be a great assistance to the good people of that 
place. ' ' 

The year was not to close without further alarm, 
for the militia had scarcely returned from the western 
frontier when they were again ordered^^ out to check 
a second invasion threatened from the north by 
forces under Major Carleton. 

*' Plots, Conspiracies, Conflagrations, Alarms, Burn- 
ing of the City, Destruction of Schenectady, &c. &c.," 
wrote^° Stephen Lush to Governor Clinton on Novem- 
ber 7, in describing the terror reigning at Albany, 
''are the only Subjects of Conversation at present." 
Adding, in all probability not without some degree of 
truth, that '^a chimney took Fire the other Evening 
and it was instantly determined [that] the enemy 
were in the midst of us." 

29lMd., p. 376. 
30 Ibid., p. 395. 



CHAPTER XVIII 
THE ONEIDAS AT SCHENECTADY 

Unmoved by promises and threats alike the 
Oneida Indians alone of the Six Nations had con- 
tinued to favor the cause of the colonists both with 
their influence and actual support. Because of this 
allegiance they had early incurred the enmity of the 
other tribes who, as we have seen, had ultimately 
decided to cast their lot with the King. The devasta- 
tion effected by General Sullivan had naturally 
widened the breach and in the measures outlined for 
retaliation it was planned that the Oneidas should 
not escape. 

On June 18, 1780, a delegation of Oneida chiefs 
acquainted^ Colonel Cornelius Van Dyck, who was 
then in command of Fort Schuyler, of the danger 
that was apprehended and of the information that 
had given rise to the belief that their town was soon 
to be destroyed unless they transferred their alle- 
giance. The threatened attack culminated in July. 
**[The Oneidas] too weak to make effectual resist- 
ance," wrote^ General Schuyler to the Marquis de 
Lafayette on August 18, ''but too firmly attached to us 
to submit, or take part with the enemy, prudently took 
shelter at Fort Schuyler the day before the arrival of 
the Enemy, who burnt part of their Village, siezed 

1 Public Papers of George Clinton, V, 883. 

2 Washington Papers, Library of Congress. 



110 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

their Cattle, and destroyed the Crops and even pur- 
sued the fugitives as far as the fort. ' ' 

Because of the scarcity of provisions the Indians 
were permitted to remain at Fort Schuyler but a few 
days.' They were, however, under the direction of 
the authorities, transferred to Schenectady, where, 
supported at the expense* of the Government, they 
remained until the end of the war. 

On their arrival at Schenectady the Indians, to 
the number of four hundred and six^ (which included 
seven Caughnawagas), were ordered quartered in 
the barracks,® and to Jellis Fonda and others was 
given the contract of supplying them with necessary 
provisions. Frequent complaints soon began to be 
heard^ to the effect that the Indians were suffering 
for want of food. General Schuyler investigated 
these complaints and on October 10 reported^ that 
he had been advised by one of the contractors that 
the Indians were well supplied with provisions with 
the exception of corn, which it was impossible to 
obtain. He reported further that the contractors 
complained that up to this time no money had been 
paid on the contract and that he was given to under- 

s Colonel Van Schaick to General Washington, July 29, 1780. Wash- 
ington Papers, Library of Congress. 

* As early as March 24, 1779, Congress empowered the commissioners 
in the Northern Department to supply provisions to their "faithful 
friends the Oneidas. " So low were the public funds and so inadequate 
the supplies for the troops that on more than one occasion both the 
State and Philip Schuyler personally advanced funds and supplies. 

5 Ninety -three of this number were men, fifty-four women and the 
balance children. The majority of the warriors probably remained 
with the troops. Papers of the Continental Congress, III, 551. 

6 lUd., p. 541. 
1 Ibid. 

8 Ibid. 



THE ONE I DAS AT SCHENECTADY 111 

stand that unless money was furnished further sup- 
plies would in all event not be readily forthcoming. 
Schuyler spoke" of the poverty of the Indians as 
being such as to render them ''an affecting spectacle 
of distress ' ' and added that few had clothing sufficient 
to render them comfortable even, at that season of 
the year. 

Because of the expense of supplying the barracks 
with firewood it was now proposed to remove the 
Indians to the neighboring woods, where they were 
to be quartered in huts.^" .This arrangement, more- 
over, would, it was felt, simplify the food problem, 
as the Indians would be able to replenish their stores 
by hunting." 

The plan proposed was probably tried but evi- 
dently did not meet with the success hoped for, as 
on December 5 James Clinton reported^^ to Wash- 
ington that the Indians were again in possession of 
the barracks and that he was at a loss to know to 
what point to remove them in order to make room 
for Continental troops^^ who were to be quartered in 
Schenectady during the winter and who were soon 
expected to put in their appearance. 

On the subsequent arrival of the Regulars the mat- 
ter" of quarters was finally adjusted by billeting the 
officers with the townspeople while soldiers and 
Indians were required to share the barracks. As 
might well be imagined this arrangement was not to 

9 lUd. 

10 lUd. 
iilfeid., p. 551. 

12 Washington Papers, Library of Congress. 

13 The 2d New York Line. 

14 Magazine of American History, December, 1881, p. 409, 



112 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

prove practical. '^Disagreeable Controversys have 
frequently arisen between the soldiery and Indians," 
reported^^ General Schuyler on March 29 of the fol- 
lowing year, "and one of the latter [has] lately been 
barbarously murdered and others Assaulted and dan- 
gerously wounded." Because of this friction it was 
found necessary to make some other provision for the 
Indians and under the direction of Schuyler they 
were again removed^^ outside the town and supplied 
with boards^^ with which to cover rude huts which they 
had already constructed. 

''The Indian Village," wrote^* the Marquis de 
Chastelleux, who visited Schenectady soon after the 
Indian encampment was established, "is nothing but 
an assemblage of miserable huts in the wood, along 
the road" to Albany. [Colonel Glen] took me into 
that of a savage du Saut Saint Louis, who had long 
lived at Montreal, and spoke good French. These 
huts are like our barracks in time of war, or those 
run up in vineyards, or orchards, to watch the fruit 

15 Papers of the Continental Congress, HI, 547. 

16 IMd. 

17 Schuyler procured these and later replaced them from his own 
stock, as he had no money with which to pay for them. He however 
expressed the hope "of being repaid at a future day, when the public 
treasury [was] in better condition. ' ' 

18 The Marquis de Chastelleux, Travels in North America, I, 401. 

19 Hon. E. Winslow Paige, than whom few are better versed in 
the early history and traditions of Schenectady, has told the writer 
that he has always supposed that the Oneidas lived on what used to 
be called "Injin" or "Engine" HUl, now Mount Pleasant, along 
the west edge of Cotton Factory Hollow, and that it was always a 
subject for discussion as to whether the name of the hill was "Injin" 
from the fact that the Oneidas lived there or ' ' Engine ' ' from the 
stationary engine of the Mohawk & Hudson Eailroad. It is not 
unlikely that the Indians lived on both sides of the Hollow. 



THE 0NEIDA8 AT SCHENECTADY 113 

when it is ripe. All the timber consists in two up- 
rights and one cross pole ; it is covered with a matted 
roof, but this is well lined within by a quantity of 
bark. The inner space is rather below the level of 
the ground, and the entrance by a little sidedoor; 
in the middle of the hut is the fire-place, from which 
the smoke ascends by an opening in the roof. On 
each side of the fire, are raised two branches, which 
run the length of the hut, and serve to sleep on; 
these are covered with skins and bark. Beside the 
savage who spoke French, in this hut, there was a 
squah, the name given to the Indian women, who had 
taken him as her second, and was bringing up a child 
by her first husband; two old men composed the 
remainder of the family, which had a melancholy and 
poor appearance. The squah was hideous, as they 
all are, and her husband almost stupid, so that the 
charms of this society did not make me forget that 
the day was advancing, and that it was time to set 
out." 

*'A11 that I could learn from the Colonel, or from 
the savages," adds the Marquis, ''was that the State 
gives them rations of meat, and sometimes of flour; 
that they possess also some land, where they sow 
Indian corn, and go a hunting for skins, which they 
exchange for rum. They are sometimes employed in 
war, and are commended for their bravery and 
fidelity. Though in subjection to the Americans, they 
have their chiefs, to whom application is made for 
justice, when an Indian has committed any crime. Mr. 
Glen told me, that they submitted to the punishments 
inflicted on them ; but had no idea that it was right to 
punish them with death, even for homicide." 



CHAPTER XIX 
THE RAIDS OF 1781 

With the coming of spring (1781) discouragement 
and apprehension grew. The continuance of the 
frontier posts, which had with difficulty been main- 
tained throughout the winter because of the scarcity 
of provisions, was by now dependent upon the imme- 
diate furnishing of supplies which were practically 
unobtainable.^ The Line troops were ''in a manner 
naked," desertions were frequent, public credit was 
almost at an end, Tories were everywhere increasing 
in numbers and from Albany came word^ that the 
militia were destitute of both arms and ammunition. 

In the expectation that Schenectady, which had by 
now in a measure become a frontier town, would be 
an early object of attack on the part of the enemy, 
the magistrates and field officers on February 27 
drew up a memorandum^ recommending that Gov- 

1 ' * The Troops at Schenectady, Saratoga and this Post are with 
the utmost difficulty supplied from Day to Day with Flour from the 
Wheat drawn from the Inhabitants by assessments, a mode which it 
is unnecessary to mention is so disagreeable to the country in general 
that we fear we shall not be able to draw in the small quantities now 
due without the interposition of the Military, but even this supply if 
we were now possessed of the whole would be greatly inadequate." 
Isaac Stoutenbergh to General Clinton. Albany, January 15, 1781. 
Washington Papers, Library of Congress. 

2 Public Papers of George Clinton, VI, 765. 

3 Ibid., p. 715. 



THE RAIDS OF 1781 115 

ernor Clinton be acquainted with their opinion that 
it was necessary to reinforce the pict:et defenses with 
seven* blockhouses and further that they felt it 
incumbent upon them to apply to him for a small 
number of cannon, an artillery officer^ with a suffi- 
cient number of men to work the cannon, a quantity 
of ammunition and an engineer to superintend the 
erecting of the blockhouses. The memorandum fur- 
ther suggested that Governor Clinton give his opin- 
ion as to how the blockhouses should be manned, 
whether or not the field officers and justices were 
invested with proper authority to appropriate private 
property to carry on the work of fortification and in 
what manner some funds could be raised to pay for 
ranging scouts, which it was felt would be of the 
greatest importance in the matter of the town's safety. 
In order to satisfy himself as to the best means of 
reaching the desired end, Governor Clinton visited 
Schenectady, and on March 24 ordered^ that work on 
the alterations and additions suggested by him dur- 
ing his visit should be proceeded with without delay, 
counseling that the advice of Major Nicholas Fish,"^ 

4 "One Battery at Mr. DeGraff 's; 

One Block House at V Eps; 

One Do at Doctor Specker's; 

One on Vrooman's Land; 

One Do at Mr. Ab. Groet's; 

One Do in Alb'y Street at the house of Isaac Merselus; 

One at the back of David Frank's; 

One at or near the Continental Stables." 

Public Papers of George Clinton, VI, 715. 
6 It was at this time that an artillery company of fifteen men under 
Captain John Crousehorn was raised in Schenectady. 

6 Public Papers of George Clinton, VI, 715. 

7 He was in command of the soldiers of the 2d New York Line 
stationed here. 



116 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



then stationed here, should be sought in case any 
question should arise as to what was desired, adding 
that inasmuch as the prospects of obtaining cannon 
were not at all promising, although there were some 
small pieces and swivels scattered in different parts 
of the country near the river which it might be pos- 
sible to transport to Schenectady and having made 
carriages eventually obtain some service from them, 
it were better that the ** works be calculated as much 
as [might] be for Defence by Musquettry. "^ 

Although small parties of the enemy had been 
reported in the Valley from time to time since early 
in the year, it was not until the latter part of April, 
when a band of eighty attacked Cherry Valley, that 
a raid of any importance occurred.* 

On May 15 word^" that an Indian hunting party 
to the north of Saratoga had been fired upon caused 
General Schuyler, to whom the incident had been 
reported, to recommend to General Clinton that 
scouts be dispatched from Schenectady without 
delay. A few days later an anonymous letter" bore 
the information that a party of from four to five 
hundred Loyalists and Indians had gone to the south- 
west of Albany to begin burning, that there were 
fifteen hundred more then at Ticonderoga for the same 
purpose and that Albany and Schenectady were to be 
their main objective points. 

8 Harmon Peters states (Pension Office Eecords, S 11224) that in 
March, 1781, he entered service as a volunteer in a company of forty- 
six men commanded by Walter Swits, raised to keep guard at Fort 
Volunteer and Fort Squash at Schenectady. The company was divided 
twenty-three men to each fort. 

9 Public Papers of George Clinton, VT, 811, 

10 lUd., p. 880. 

11 Washington Papers, Library of Congress. 



THE RAIDS OF 1781 117 

That treason was at work and the enemy correctly 
informed regarding the true situation of the country 
was plainly evident from a British Secret Service 
document^^ intercepted on May 27, which among 
other items contained advice as to sending a force 
against Albany, first preparing the way by distribut- 
ing handbills hinting at pardon and protection for 
all who might assist the British. Schenectady was 
described in the document as ''strongly picketed all 
round, [having] six pieces of Ordinance, 6 pounders, 
[with] Block Houses preparing." "It is to be 
defended by the Inhabitants," continued the report, 
"who except about a Dozen, are for Government. 
There are a few of Courtlandt's Regiment here. A 
large Quantity of Grain stored . . . for the Use of 
the Troops [and] large Boats building^^ to convey 
heavy Metal and Shot to Fort Stanwix." 

12 Hid. 

13 The batteaux were being built under the greatest difficulties 
because of the trouble met with in procuring boards. Henry Glen 
reported the matter to headquarters on July 17 as follows: "Yours of 
the 14th Inst. I have received and ever since have used every exertion 
that lay in my power to prevail on the Proprietors of the Boards to 
let the Public have them. They say that it is impossible, unless they 
receive hard money for them, or we may as well cut their Wife's and 
Children's throats, for it is their only support for the Necessarys of 
Life. As to sending soldiers or Persons to impress them, they seem 
to be determined not to suffer their Property to be taken from them any 
longer at the risque of their Lives, as they have not been paid for 
their Boards etc. furnished the Public for these two years past, and 
no prospect of their being paid yet, this is their Language and what 
to do in the matter I do not know. I have this Spring when '^'^n^ oe? 
and the Head of the Department's credit failed, pledged my own 
Credit to build 16 new Boats for which I have made myself payable, 
and with the Expectation of receiving the Money in a few days, which I 
had the promise of and am daily ask'd for the Cash, and still no Money, 
all this I do not mind; no man longs more to make an end of the 
War than I do by carrying it on with Vigour, I am and always was 



118 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

The anticipated attacks fortunately did not mature 
and soon the settlers had occasion to again take heart, 
for in June Colonel Marinus Willett," persuaded by- 
Governor Clinton to leave the main army in order 
to take command of such troops as were already in 
the service or to be raised for the defense of the 
frontiers, arrived at Fort Rensselaer to enter upon 
the difficult task for which he had been summoned. 

The services of this efficient officer at Torlock,^** 
his untiring efforts in the pursuit of the raiders 
whenever they appeared, his wisdom and skill in the 
disposition of the meager forces under his command 
soon justified the confidence that had been placed in 
him, and during the summer^^ the lower Mohawk Val- 
ley was practically free from incursion, while the 

willing to pledge my Life and little Property for the support of the 
War but am sorry to find the Virtue and exertions of the People are 
lost throughout the Whole Country. The Service is neglected by those 
at the Helm for want of money. Why is not part of the Continent 
pledged to some Power to carry on the War with Vigour and borrow 
a sufficient Sum." Letter Books of Colonel Hugh Hughes. New 
York Historical Society. 

14 " I am glad we have a Hero left in the room of a Montgomery 
that he may live and see the Pride of Britain fall, and a Glorious Peace 
Established for Centuries to come. It is a Brave WILLETT, I mean." 
Letter of Henry Glen, July 17, 1781. Letter Books of Colonel Hugh 
Hughes. New York Historical Society. 

15 Now the town of Sharon, Schoharie County. The Levies wounded 
in the battle at that place were sent to Schenectady for treatment. 

16 At this time details of the Schenectady militia were on garrison 
duty at some of the forts to the westward. Details at Fort Hunter, 
p^-,,;.^ Office Eecords, James Barhydt S 12948. Details at Fort 
Plank, Pension Office Eecords, Gerrit Van Eps W 2200; Daniel Kettle 
W 21528; John B. Veeder E 10927. Details at Schoharie, Pension 
Office Eecords, Eeuben Wheaton. A company was also on duty at 
Claas Viele's Eifts about four miles above Schenectady where a log 
house served as a fort. Pension Office Eecords, Philip Viele E 10947; 
Frederick Vedder S 21547. 



THE RAIDS OF 1781 119 

activity of the enemy on the frontiers was given over 
to raids by small detachments attended with conse- 
quences of little importance. 

In September Albany was again thrown into a panic 
by a report" that the enemy were determined to 
burn the city. The Tories in the vicinity were again 
active, and in fear many people packed their valuables 
in order to have them conveyed to a place of greater 
safety.^^ It was, however, late in October before the 
enemy in force made their appearance in the Valley. 
Major Eoss with a following of some four hundred 
and fifty Indians, Regulars and Tories, which number 
was augmented as he proceeded, advancing by way 
of Cherry Valley to the Mohawk River, on October 24 
fell upon Warren's Bush.^® On news of the attack 
Schenectady was at once ordered^** reinforced, but 
these orders were later countermanded as word was 
brought that the enemy after burning Warren's Bush 
had retired. 

Although the scene of the attack was about twenty 
miles to the east of Fort Rensselaer where Colonel 
Willett had established his headquarters, so unex- 
pected was the attack that the enemy had ample 
opportunity to accomplish their purpose before 
Colonel Willett was able to collect forces to repel 
them. 

Immediately upon receipt of the news of the raid 

17 On receipt of the news a company under Captain Thomas Brower 
Banker marched as far north as Galway but later returned to Ballston, 
where they remained quartered for a fortnight or so. Pension Office 
Eecords, Wessel Cornu W 1029. 

18 Public Papers of George Clinton, VII, 304. 

19 lUd., p. 443, 

20 lUd., p. 448. 



120 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Colonel Willett dispatched messengers down the 
Valley asking the militia to join him, while he him- 
self at once set out in pursuit of the enemy with what 
forces he could collect. 

Major Ross had retired to Johnstown and here on 
the next day (October 25) Colonel Willett forced an 
engagement, causing the enemy to retreat. On the 
evening of the twenty-eighth, having been reinforced 
by a band of Oneidas and the militia, which included 
a detachment^^ from Schenectady under Captain 
Jellis Fonda, Colonel Willett started in pursuit of 
the raiders, subsequently attacking a detail of them 
on the West Canada Creek, killing several, among 
whom was Walter Butler, and leaving the rest "to 
the compassion of a starving wilderness."" The 
news of the death of Butler was received in Schenec- 
tady with great rejoicing. The Whigs illuminated 
their houses and the Tories under threat of being 
mobbed were forced to do likewise.^' 

With the expedition under Major Ross closed for 
the year the active operations of the enemy on the 
frontier, and ten days before the engagement on the 
West Canada Creek, Cornwallis surrendered at 
Yorktown. 

21 This detachment was with others complimented on their behavior 
in General Orders. Public Papers of George Clinton, VII, 483. 
Other members of the militia appear to have marched to Johnstown on 
the alarm, but evidently a small detachment only as volunteers went as 
far as the West Canada Creek, the remainder being assigned to garrison 
duty in the neighboring forts. 

22 Colonel Willett to Governor Clinton. Public Papers of George 
Clinton, VII, 474. 

23 Jane Ferguson 's Eevolutionary EecoUections. The American 
Monthly Magazine, April, 1902. Jane Ferguson was one of the sur- 
vivors of the Cherry Valley massacre who sought refuge in Schenectady. 
She remained here until after peace was declared. 



CHAPTER XX 
AFTER YORKTOWN 

While with the cuhnination of the campaign end- 
ing in the American victory at Yorktown active hos- 
tilities in the country at large were brought to an 
end, minor raids were to "keep the frontiers in alarm 
for nearly a year and a half, necessitating constant 
watchfulness and preparedness^ on the part of the 
authorities. 

In June, 1782, reports- brought to General Wash- 
ington indicated that Albany and Schenectady were 
to be the chief objects of another attack on the part 
of the enemy. While these reports were probably 
without foundation there may have been some con- 
nection between them and the visit which General 
Washington paid to Albany during the latter part of 
the month. 

It was during this visit that Washington, on the 

1 The Act of the New York Legislature of November 17, 1781, and 
the Act of March 23, 1782, brought into being during the spring of 
1782 the class of militia known as "Militia-Land Bounty Rights." 
Under this arrangement for raising fifteen hundred men for the 
defense of the frontiers and to fill the vacancies in the Line, the 
militia companies were divided into "classes" averaging fifteen men 
in number and each "class" was obliged to furnish one man fully 
equipped for service, for which it received a compensation of two 
hundred acres of land. The granting of lands as a bounty was neces- 
sitated because of the very great scarcity of specie. 

2 Washington Papers, Library of Congress. 



122 BISTORT OF SCHENECTADY 

invitation of the townspeople, took occasion to pay 
his second' visit to Schenectady, riding over in a car- 
riage with General Schuyler on the thirtieth. On 
their arrival these two distinguished guests were 
received with ''no little formality by the civil and 
military authorities and escorted some distance by 
a numerous procession in which [Washington] 
walked with his hat under his arm."* At the public 
dinner given later at the tavern of Eobert Clench 
were assembled ''a respectable number of gentle- 
men," and to Colonel Frederick Visscher, who was 
then living in Schenectady, Washington assigned the 
seat on his right.^ 

At some time during the day an address was pub- 
licly delivered and before Washington set out on his 
return to Albany he took occasion to write the fol- 
lowing reply :* 

To the Magistrates and Military Officers of the town of 
Sehenectada : 

Gentlemen — I request you to accept my warmest thanks 
for your affectionate address. 

In a cause so just and righteous as ours, we have every 
reason to hope the Divine Providence will still continue to 
crown our arms with success, and finally compel our enemies 

3 His first visit was a hurried one soon after the commencement of 
the war in order to make arrangements for frontier defense. He 
dined and lodged at the residence of John and Henry Glen and also 
took tea at the residence of John Sanders, Washington again visited 
Schenectady in 1786 while making a tour through the country. On this 
occasion he was quartered at the inn of Eobert Clench. Hon. John 
Sanders, Early History of Schenectady, p. 274. 

4 Jeptha E. Simms, The Frontiersmen of New York, II, 624, 

5 Hid. 
« lUd. 



AFTER YORKTOWN 123 

to grant us that peace upon equitable terms, which we so 
ardently desire. 

May you, and the good people of this town, in the meantime, 
be protected from every insidious and open foe, and may the 
complicated blessings of peace soon reward your arduous 
struggles for the establishment of the freedom and independ- 
ence of our common country. 

Go. WASHINGTON. 

The news of the declaration of peace in 1783 was 
received in Schenectady amid great rejoicing and 
followed by a befitting celebration; a large bonfire of 
pine knots was built on the hill overlooking the town 
and hung in the midst of the flames was an effigy of 
Benedict Arnold.'' 

With the return of peace to the frontiers the set- 
tlers began to return to the desolation that every- 
where prevailed to rebuild their homesteads and again 
take up their daily tasks. 

For the Indians who had fought on the side of the 
King, deprived now of British support and not even 
mentioned in the treaty of peace, nothing remained 
but to abandon themselves to the mercy of the victors.^ 

In Schenectady the fortifications were permitted to 
go into decay or removed and at this time also, for 
the war had brought the townspeople into contact with 
the men and customs of the other colonies, there 

7 Jane Ferguson 's Eevolutionary Eecollections. The American 
Monthly Magazine, April, 1902. 

8 Due to the influence of Washington, who advocated a liberal policy 
toward the Iroquois, they were not expelled from the State, where by 
the laws of war all their lands had been forfeited. To the Oneidas 
and Tuscaroras in 1785 were granted certain lands in the western part 
of New York, which were subsequently in 1788 purchased from them by 
the State. 



124 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

began to disappear many of those primitive usages 
peculiar to the Dutch inhabitants of the town. 

In the English Church (St. George's), while many 
of the indignities suffered by her sister churches had 
been escaped, desolation now prevailed. The build- 
ing, dilapidated, with windows broken out, had even 
become the resort of the swine that roamed at will 
through the streets of the town.^ Of those who had 
attended service before the war but a few remained," 
upon whom, as courage revived, devolved the bur- 
den of restoring the church building and renewing 
parochial activities. 

Soon came many from New England to the rich 
lands of western New York, journeying with their 
families in ox-cart and covered wagon or transfer- 
ring to boats at Schenectady. To meet the ever 
increasing demands of the travelers and to facilitate 
the transportation of supplies there was incorporated 
in 1792 and completed in 1797, under the direction of 
General Philip Schuyler, the enterprise known as the 
Inland Lock Navigation Company, whereby boats of 
a deeper draught than the small batteaux might pro- 
ceed without unloading from Schenectady to Oswego. 
For a quarter of a century the Mohawk was to remain 
a scene of commercial activity, or until 1825, when 

9 Jonathan Pearson, History of the Schenectady Patent, p. 396. 

10 Mr. John Doty reported in 1780 from Montreal where he had taken 
refuge that "his poor little flock [had] been almost dispersed and the 
few remaining were in the most deplorable circumstances," adding that 
he had "been informed by a young man, lately from Schenectady, that 
the congregation consisted of only twenty-seven white adults, twenty 
children and some blacks." The fate of the Presbyterian congregation 
was in aE probability not unlike that of St, George's. Jonathan 
Pearson, History of the Schenectady Patent, p. 401. 



AFTER YOBKTOWN 125 

with the completion of the Erie Canal the traffic of 
the Valley was transferred to that channel. 

In 1795 the Academy built by the Dutch Reformed 
Church through the influence of Doctor Eomeyn 
became Union College, the consummation of a move- 
ment started four years before the war cry of the 
Indian and crack of the rifle had ceased to resound 
throughout the Valley. 

With these enterprises looking toward the eco- 
nomic, commercial and intellectual welfare of the 
community as well as with the political affairs of the 
State, early became associated many men of Sche- 
nectady, who, with distinction, had served their coun- 
try throughout her struggle for independence and 
whose names appear quite as prominently in the his- 
tory of the years following the Eevolution, until each 
in his turn was claimed by death, as they appear in 
the short period covered by the war itself. 



INDIVIDUAL EECORDS OF SEEVICE 



INDIVIDUAL EECOEDS OF SERVICE 

Adams, William: Settled in Schenectady about 1757. His 
name appears as having served as a physician and on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Alexander, Alexander: Bom February 19, 1765; died 
September 1, 1809. His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. At the commencement of the 
war he was but ten years of age and it is therefore probable 
that he saw very little active service. 

Alexander, Robert : On March 1, 1776, he signed an agree- 
ment with Philip Schuyler for service at Ticonderoga 
and Lake George. He is mentioned in the state treasurer's 
pay book as having served as a lieutenant in the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Alexander, Sandy : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Ament, Eldert : Died shortly before March, 1798. A mer- 
chant in 1790, living on the south corner of Union and 
Ferry Streets. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. On November 21, 1776, there was 
an Eldert Ament serving as ensign in the 5th Company, 
3d New York Line. He resigned on December 23, 1778. 

Banker, Thomas Brower: Born in 1729; died May 25, 
1807. A blacksmith by trade. He built and lived in a 
house on State Street at the present location of No. 224. 
He and his wife, Anna Mebie, are buried side by side near 
the State Street entrance of Vale Cemetery, their bodies 
having been removed from the old Dutch Reformed Church 
burying ground on Green Street. On October 20, 1775, 



130 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Banker was commissioned first lieutenant in the 4th 
Company, 2d Albany County Militia. On November 22 
he received a comjnission as captain from the Provincial 
Congress and on February 10, 1776, was assigned to one 
of the newly organized Schenectady companies of militia. 
In May, 1777, he was on duty at Fort Edward. He 
remained there for some time, after which his company 
was ordered to Snookkill. He served through the cam- 
paign against Burgoyne. On June 20, 1778, he was re- 
appointed captain, and during this year served at the 
Schoharie Forts and in command of a detachment under 
General Clinton erecting fortifications at Sacandaga. In 
the spring of 1779, he commanded a detachment to Beaver- 
dam and captured seven Tories. In the summer he was 
in command of a detail at Schoharie and in August went 
with his company to Herkimer. In the fall he served at 
Fort Plank and Stone Arabia. In August, 1780, he went 
with the troops to Fort Plain after the destruction of 
Canajoharie and in the fall to Ballston after the raid. 
In September, 1781, he commanded a detachment which 
marched some thirty miles to the north of Schenectady 
"to drive back the enemy who were said to be advancing 
towards this place," and in October, he commanded a 
detachment in pursuit of Major Ross and Butler. Simms 
mentions an amusing incident which occurred during 
General Washington's visit to Schenectady in June, 1782. 
Washington was walking on the street in company with 
Captain Banker when an old negro passing removed his 
hat and bowed. Washington immediately returned the 
compliment much to the surprise of Banker, who sug- 
gested that it was not the custom of the country to notice 
slaves. '*I cannot be less civil than a poor negro," Wash- 
ington replied as they walked on. 

Barclay, James: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 131 

Barhydt, Cornelius : He served as a captain of batteaumen, 
and in the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Barhydt, Jacob: Baptized February 9, 1753. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Barhydt, James: Born in Schenectady, March 28, 1762, 
and lived here until the year 1784. In the spring of 1778 
he enrolled as a private under Captain Jesse Van Slyck, 
2d Albany County Militia. He performed considerable 
scout and patrol duty and about June 20, 1779, as a vol- 
unteer private was assigned to a company of Rangers 
from Cherry Valley under Captain Robert McKean. With 
this company he assisted in the transportation of the 
stores and baggage of General Clinton 's brigade ; perform- 
ing both guard and fatigue duty. In October, 1780, as a 
private under Captain Van Slyck he marched to Scho- 
harie in pursuit of Sir John Johnson, Brant and Butler, 
and in October, 1781, he went to Warren's Bush in pur- 
suit of Major Ross and was with the troops at the West 
Canada Creek when Butler lost his life. A pensioner. 

Barhydt, Jerone: Born in the Schenectady Township, 
October 28, 1764 ; died July 10, 1849. When called into the 
service he lived at the Norman's Kill. In 1779 he volun- 
teered under Major Swits, 2d Albany County Militia, for 
the pursuit of Tories at the Heldebergh. In the fall of 
1780 he enrolled under Captain Thomas Brower Banker 
and went with the troops under General Van Rensselaer 
in pursuit of Sir John Johnson. In the spring of 1781 
he enlisted in the state troops. He served at the Middle 
Fort, Schoharie, and at the Upper Fort, where he took 
part in a battle with a party of Mohawk Indians under a 
Tory named Christler. After four months' service he 
again enlisted under Captain Banker and served to the 
end of the war. In the fall of 1781 he took part in the 
battle of Johnstown and went with the troops in pursuit 
of Walter Butler as far as the West Canada Creek. He 



132 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

performed considerable garrison duty at Schenectady and 
elsewhere. He received a pension which was later sus- 
pended and his widow's claim rejected. 

Baehtdt, John: Baptized January 7, 1739. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

•Barhydt, Lewis: Bom in 1755; died March 7, 1829. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 
In August, 1780, he was in command of the guard at 
Schenectady. 

Barhydt, Nicholas: Born November 12, 1744; died April 
15, 1827. On February 10, 1776, he was elected second 
lieutenant in Captain Abraham Oothout's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. He was spoken of as "an active, 
zealous and valuable officer, always ready when occasion of- 
fered to serve his country." In the fall of 1776, he took part 
in an expedition to Fort Edward, Fort Ann and Skenes- 
borough, and in the summer of 1777, was with the North- 
ern Army at Van Schaick's Island, Bemis Heights and 
Saratoga. On June 20, 1778, he was regularly commis- 
sioned second lieutenant, his commission being signed by 
Nathaniel WoodhuU, president of the Provincial Congress. 
During the summer of 1778 he was on duty at the Scho- 
harie Forts and in July at Fort Plain. In the spring of 
1779 he again served at Fort Plain and in the fall at Stone 
Arabia. In the spring of 1780 he was ordered to Johns- 
town and there joined the forces under Colonel Gansevoort. 
In the fall of this same year he went on an expedition 
to Fort Hunter. He often commanded detachments on 
tours for the apprehension of Tories or on alarms when 
towards the end of the war the militia was frequently 
called out on short excursions. His name appears on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty 
Eights. His widow received a pension which was, after 
her death, transferred to her four children. 



IN DIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 133 

Barhydt, Teunis : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d. 
Albany County Militia. In 1778 he was enrolled under 
Captain Jesse Van Slyck. 

Bartley, Daniel : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Hartley, Michael: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Bastian, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. He served as a private under 
Captain John Mynderse and as a sergeant under Captain 
Thomas Wasson. In 1781 he was a member of Captain 
John Crousehorn's company of artillery. 

Bates, David: On February 14, 1776, while serving as a 
lieutenant in the Line under Captain Gerrit S. Veeder 
in Colonel Cornelius D. Wynkoop's regiment, he was 
recommended for the office of second lieutenant in the 
company of Rangers to be formed under Captain John 
A. Bradt. He accepted this office, but on April 12 asked 
permission of the Committee to resign, stating that the 
men were mutinous and dissatisfied at Gerrit S. Veeder 
being appointed their captain instead of waiting for the 
return of Bradt. The next day Bates delivered his com- 
mission to the Committee but he was later induced to ask 
for its return and his request was granted with the admoni- 
tion that he watch his future behavior. 

Bearup, Andrew: He was enrolled under Captain John 
Mynderse, 2d Albany County Militia. In January, 1776, 
he took part in the expedition to Johnstown, and in the 
fall of 1777 in the campaign against Burgoyne. In the 
fall of 1779 he was on duty at Stone Arabia. He served 
as a batteau and fatigue man under both William Peters 
and Joseph Peek, and in the fall of 1780 was stationed at 
Saratoga. During the year 1781 or 1782 he is said to have 
served in the Levies under Colonel Willett. His widow 
received a pension. 



134 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Beaeup, John: Probably from Princetown. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. In 
the fall of 1779 he served under Captain Abraham Oothout 
in an expedition to Stone Arabia, acting as a substitute 
for Christopher Ward. In July 1782, he went on scout 
duty to Harpersfield. His widow's claim for pension was 
rejected, 

Beakup, Thomas : He is buried on the old Blessing farm in 
Princetown about three hundred feet east of the house. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Becker, Gerrit: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Beekman, Jacob : Baptized August 9, 1761 ; died November 
4, 1817. He lived on Washington Avenue. Towards the 
end of the war he was appointed captain of militia to suc- 
ceed Captain John Van Patten, resigned. 

Berkin, William : Bom in ' ' Old England. ' ' On September 
1, 1781, he was reported a deserter from the Levies under 
Colonel Willett and was described as being five feet three 
inches in height, brown complexion, black hair and eyes 
and fifty-five years of age. 

Bestedo, Clara: On January 18, 1776, she informed the 
Committee of Safety that she had some intelligence to 
communicate relative to the proceedings at Johnstown. 
She was examined under oath and her information for- 
warded to General Schuyler, who was then on his way 
there. 

Beth, Jellis : Baptized August 11, 1751. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Beth, Robert: Baptized November 28, 1742. In 1777 he 
was serving as an ensign in Captain Abraham Oothout 's 
company, 2d Albany County Militia, and in the faU of 
1780 was on duty at Caughnawaga. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 135 

Beth, Thomas: Baptized January 8, 1749. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia and 
the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

BoiCE (Buys), Abraham: His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Boice (Buys), James: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Bond, Richard: A complaint lodged against him with the 
Committee of Safety was dismissed on May 30, 1777, for 
lack of proof. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Bonny, Ichabod: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Bonny, John: Bom in 1754; died September 3, 1832. He 
served in the Levies under Colonel Marinus Willett. A 
pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

BoviE, Abraham: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

BoviE, Isaac: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

BoviE, Israel: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

BoviE, Jacob : Born in 1756. In March, 1776, while resid- 
ing in Glenville he was pressed into the service as a 
teamster and required to make a trip to Montreal carry- 
ing baggage and sick soldiers. During the years 1776 and 
1777 he served in Captain Abraham Van Eps's company, 
2d Albany County Militia, and performed garrison duties 
on several occasions. In September, 1777, he marched 
with his company to Bemis Heights and was one of the 
picket guard during the battle. He served later at Balls- 
ton, Caughnawaga, Stone Arabia and the Schoharie Forts, 
generally on draft and under various officers. 



136 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

BoviE, Nicholas P. : On August 25, 1776, he enlisted in 
Captain John A. Bradt's company of State Rangers and 
also served during this year under Captain Gerrit S. 
Veeder. He was a familiar figure about Schenectady 
where he came to live several years after the Revolution. 
He was nicknamed "Sculpennick" or "Scalped Nick," 
for in July, 1777, he was shot, tomahawked and scalped by 
the Indians at Fort Stanwix. He was taken to the fort 
as dead by some of the soldiers. After recovering suffi- 
ciently to perform invalid duty, he again joined the army. 
His widow received a pension. 

BoviE, Nicholas R. : Baptized August 26, 1744. In Feb- 
ruary, 1777, he enlisted at Schenectady in a company 
of batteaumen under Captain Reuben Symonds. He 
served on the North River and Saratoga Lake assisting 
in transporting artillery both before and at the surrender 
of Burgoyne. After this service he was ordered to Fort 
Stanwix with clothing and provisions. In March, 1778, 
he again enlisted at Schenectady in a company of batteau- 
men under Captain Cornelius Barhydt, and was dis- 
charged December 25, 1778. He subsequently served in 
the regiments under Colonels Du Bois and Visseher, and 
after the repulse of Sir John Johnson in the fall of 1780 
he was one of the guards to pilot to Schenectady a boat 
containing a number of the wounded. A pensioner. 

Bowman, Frederick: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Bradford, James: Probably from Glenville. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Bradt, Andries: On September 26, 1776, he enlisted in 
Captain John A. Bradt's company of State Rangers. 

Bradt, Anthony D. : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 137 

Bradt, Arent a. : Baptized January 9, 1762 ; died previous 
to 1809. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany- 
County Militia. 

Bradt, Arent S. : Born in 1743; died February 3, 1814. 
Buried in Vale Cemetery. His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Bradt, Charles: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Bradt, Cornelius: Born April 21, 1762; died August 16, 
1814. Buried in Vale Cemetery. He was enrolled in the 
company of Captain Jesse Van Slyek, 2d Albany County 
Militia. In the summer of 1777 he served in the cam- 
paign against Burgoyne and in the spring of 1778 in an 
expedition to Beaverdam under Captain Thomas Brower 
Banker. During the summer of this same year he was on 
duty at the Lower Fort Schoharie and in the fall one of 
the garrison at Fort Plain. In October, 1781, he marched 
under Captain John Van Patten in pursuit of Major Ross 
and Butler. His widow received a pension. 

Bradt, Elias: Baptized September 14, 1756. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Bradt, Ephraim: He was enrolled in the company of Cap- 
tain Jellis J. Fonda, 2d Albany County Militia. During 
the summer of 1777 he served two months in the campaign 
against Burgoyne and in 1778 performed garrison duty 
at the Schoharie Forts, Fort Plain and Fort Paris. In 
May or June, 1779, he was with Captain Thomas Brower 
Banker under General Clinton, erecting fortifications at 
Sacandaga. From August to October, 1781, he was on 
guard duty at Claas Viele's Fort under Sergeant William 
Teller. 

Bradt, Frederick : Baptized November 20, 1748. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. 



138 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Bradt, Gerrit: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Bradt, Jacobus: Bom in 1730; died March 26, 1801. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Bradt, Jacobus S. : Baptized June 9, 1745. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Bradt, John A. : Baptized March 22, 1741. A silversmith. 
On July 10, 1775, he was recommended to the Provincial 
Congress for the office of captain in the recruiting ser- 
vice. On February 13, 1776, while absent on a trading 
expedition to Canada he was favorably considered by the 
Committee of Safety for the captaincy of a troop to be 
raised in the district. When approached by two members 
of the Board regarding the possibility of his accepting 
the office his wife stated that ''she did not know when 
her husband would be home and that for her part she did 
not approve of his going into the army, though he always 
did as he pleased. She was of the opinion that he would 
not accept the commission [and] that he was ill used last 
year in that respect." This report evidently did not dis- 
courage the Board, for on the same day (February 14) he 
was assigned the captaincy in case the organization of the 
company could wait until his return. On April 10 Bradt 
had not yet returned and it was therefore decided to 
appoint Gerrit S. Veeder in his place. On May 7 he was 
elected a member of the third Committee of Safety, and 
on August 10 commissioned by the Provincial Congress 
captain of a company of State Rangers for service in 
apprehending Tories in Albany County. On October 26 
he commanded a detachment for service at Coxsackie and 
on October 30 marched with his company to Tryon County 
under orders to report to Colonel Goose Van Schaick. 
From December 16, 1776, to January 15, 1777, he was 
stationed with his company at Fort Constitution and in 
January he petitioned Congress as the men complained 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 139 

that such duty was contrary to their terms of enlistment. 
On March 27 the company was ordered discharged. On 
April 19, he was granted a tavern license by the Com- 
mittee of Safety. On May 20 the election of a new Board 
was held at his home. 

Bradt, John S. : Born September 16, 1754 ; died October 
19, 1804. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Bradt, Mindert: Born in 1752; died June 7, 1806. A 
blacksmith. Buried in Vale Cemetery. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Bradt, Samuel: Born August 22, 1715; died August 3, 
1799. He served in the 2d Albany County Militia previous 
to July 8, 1777, on which date he was relieved from further 
duty as being ''disordered in mind and in a bad state of 
health." 

Bradt, Samuel S. : Baptized April 10, 1737. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Bragham, John: Baptized October 16, 1743; died in 1820. 
He is buried on the Michael Brougham farm (now owned 
by Henry Raeger) in Prineetown. The graveyard is about 
three hundred feet east of the house on the south bank of 
the creek. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Bragham, Joseph: Baptized May 5, 1734. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Bragham, Simon: Baptized June 14, 1718; died before 
1786. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Broachim, John: A farmer. On July 23, 1780, he was 
sent under arrest to Albany as being connected with a plot 
to join the enemy or supplying them with provisions. On 
August 10 he was released on bail. 



140 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Brower, Hendric: Bom October 15, 1731; died December 
11, 1801. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia and the 2d Albany Comity Militia, Land 
Bounty Rights. 

Brower, Richard: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia, 

Brown, Abraham : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Brown, John: Enlisted from Schenectady under Captain 
John Graham, 1st New York Line. 

BuRNHAM, William: Bom in 1760; died January 9, 1822. 
He served as a private in the Connecticut Line. A pen- 
sioner under the Act of March 18, 1818. 

Burns, Arent: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Burns, David: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Cahill, John: Born in 1745; died March 1, 1822. On 

November 17, 1776, he enlisted for the war and was 

assigned to the 8th Company, 1st New York Line. He 
deserted on October 10, 1780. 

Cain, Barent: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Cain, Peter Warren : Born in Warren's Bush, March 2, 
1750. During the Revolution and after he lived in Glen- 
ville. In the spring of 1775 he enlisted for one month 
under Captain John Van Patten, 2d Albany County 
Militia. He then enlisted under Captain Cornelius Van 
Dyck in the New York Line, and served for nine months. 
He marched to Ticonderoga, Crown Point and the Isle 
Aux Noix. He was with the detachment that reduced 
Chamblee and fought at the siege of St. John's. In 
January, 1776, he took part in the expedition to Johns- 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 141 

town, and on his return mounted guard at Teunis Swarfs 
Fort. In the fall of 1777 he served twenty-five days with 
the Northern Army as orderly sergeant under Captain 
John Van Patten. Previous and subsequent to this ser- 
vice he volunteered in the company of batteaumen under 
Myndert Wemple and was employed in transporting sup- 
plies on the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers. He performed 
various garrison and fatigue duties and went on several 
tours for the apprehension of Tories. In 1780 he was 
stationed at the Highlands, in a fatigue company under 
Captain William James, and in October, 1781, was in the 
battle of Johnstown, marching with the detachment in 
pursuit of the enemy to the West Canada Creek. A pen- 
sioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Campbell, Alexander: A native of Scotland. He settled 
in Schenectady in 1762, later removed to Schoharie, but 
was again a resident of Schenectady on June 3, 1775, 
under orders never to return to Schoharie. In 1776 it 
being ascertained that he had warned Sir John Johnson 
of his danger, a mob burned his storehouse at Schoharie 
and later destroyed his store at Schenectady with goods 
and merchandise, "burning at the same time eight loads 
of hay and poisoning two milch cows." He was subse- 
quently sent a prisoner to Connecticut, but on December 
3 was permitted to return home on parole. In May, 1777, 
he was recommended to the field officers as "a dangerous 
person, ' ' and on May 3 was arrested to be taken to Albany 
but was released on his oath that he would take up arms in 
defense of the country in case of any invasion. On Sep- 
tember 7, 1778, he refused to take the Oath of Allegiance, 
and requested permission of the Commissioners of Con- 
spiracies to remove to Canada with his family. This 
request was granted and he was ordered to prepare him- 
self to be removed on the shortest notice. He probably 
acted as a spy on various occasions, as his petition to the 
British Government for remuneration contains an item 



142 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

of £15 13s., cash paid to sundry expenses in obtaining 
information of the situation of the Continental Army for 
Generals Burgoyne and Fraser. 

Campbell, Daniel: Born September 19, 1730; died August 

16, 1802. He came to Schenectady some time in the year 
1754. He commenced business as an Indian trader with 
a pack on his back and at the commencement of the 
war was reputed to have amassed a considerable fortune. 
He lived in the house now known as 101 State Street, which 
was erected for him in 1762. He was an intimate friend 
of Sir William Johnson and in 1771 was one of the judges 
of the Court of Co mm on Pleas for Albany County. On 
August 5, 1775, he was granted a permit by the Committee 
of Safety to go to Canada on private business. On April 

17, 1776, he was refused a recommendation from the Board 
for permission to obtain a pass from General Schuyler 
"to forward goods up the country." In May, 1777, he 
was recommended to the field officers as "a dangerous 
person." On May 22 he voluntarily took an oath that 
he would take up arms in defense of the country in case 
of any invasion. On July 30 he was ordered arrested 
and to appear before the State Committee for refusing 
to receive Continental currency in payment of a debt. On 
May 1, 1778, he was brought before the Commissioners 
of Conspiracies "for speaking words that in the opinion 
of the Board might have a dangerous tendency and prove 
detrimental to the liberties of America." He was released 
on bail and on June 14, was cited to appear before the 
Committee to render satisfaction touching his conduct 
conformable to the Act regarding persons of a neutral 
and equivocal character. On July 17 he refused to take 
the Oath of Allegiance and was ordered to hold himself 
in readiness to be removed within the enemy's lines. On 
July 29 he requested a temporary suspension of the pro- 
ceedings and on August 1 declared his readiness to take 
the Oath, but was not permitted to do so as the Act did 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 143 

not permit of the Oath being administered to one who had 
already refused to take it. He was ordered to be ready 
for removal on the fourteenth. On May 19, 1779, the Oath 
was administered to him in accordance with the provisions 
of the amended Act. His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Campbell, Kenneth : Bom in 1743. On January 23, 1777, 
he enlisted for the war and was assigned to Captain Henry 
Tiebout's company, 3d New York Line. He was later 
transferred to the company of Captain George Sytez. He 
was in Fort Stanwix when besieged, at the battles of White 
Plains and Monmouth and at the surrender of Cornwallis. 
A pensioner under the Act of March 18, 1818. 

Canoot, John: On March 4, 1776, he was appointed an 
overseer of batteaumen by the Schenectady Committee of 
Safety for service at Lake George. 

Cakley, Joseph: Born in 1762; died April 23, 1842. On 
May 6, 1779, he was drafted for nine months' service and 
assigned to Captain John F. Hamtramck's company, 5th 
New York Line. He served in Sullivan's expedition 
against the Indians. At the expiration of the period for 
which he was drafted, in January, 1780, he enlisted for 
the war under Captain Henry Du Bois. He remained in 
this company until the winter of 1783, when he was 
transferred to Captain Hamtramck's company of light 
infantry connected with the same regiment. At the close 
of the war he was honorably discharged and given a badge 
of merit. A pensioner under the Act of March 18, 1818. 

Cartwright, Henry : His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Cartwright, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Cassada (or Cassety), John: He was enrolled in the com- 
pany of Captain Jellis J. Fonda, 2d Albany County Mili- 



144 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

tia, entering service some time in 1776. He served two 
months in the campaign against Burgoyne. In 1778 he 
was on duty near German Flats with State troops or 
Levies, and in the same year served at the Schoharie Forts 
and at Fort Plain. In the fall of 1781 he marched with 
the troops in pursuit of Major Ross and Butler. His 
widow received a pension. 

Catlet, Thomas: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Celder, Abraham: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Ceron^ Christopher: A joiner. On November 15, 1779, he 
went bail for Julius Bush. 

Cessler, Thomas: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Channel, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, 

Channel, Thomas: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Charles, Hendrick: Baptized May 30, 1731. On March 1, 
1776, he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler for 
service at Lake George and Ticonderoga. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Christla.nnse, Ahastjeras: Baptized February 26, 1749. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia and the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty 
Eights. 

CHRiSTLysTNSE, IsAAC : Bom in Schenectady, January 1, 1755, 
and lived here all his life. In the summer of 1775, he 
enlisted under Captain John Mynderse, 2d Albany County 
Militia, and served as a "minute man" until the spring 
of 1777 when Mynderse 's company was disbanded and its 
members joined to the regular militia under Colonel Abra- 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 145 

ham "Wemple. In January, 1776, lie took part in the 
expedition to Johnstown, and during the summer was 
employed at Ticonderoga and near-by places erecting 
storehouses and aiding in the building of boats for the 
army. During the summer and fall of 1777 he was sta- 
tioned at Fort Miller, Fort Ann and Fort Edward. He 
took part in the engagement at Snookkill and at Still- 
water on September 19. In 1778 he performed garrison 
duty at the Upper Fort, Schoharie, under Captain Fink, 
and in 1779 was on duty at German Flats guarding 
farmers while they were bringing in their crops. In the 
fall of 1780 he marched to Ballston in pursuit of the 
enemy. A pensioner under the act of June 7, 1832. 

CiLKER, William : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Clark, Henry A. : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Clark, Matthis: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Clark, William: On April 19, 1777, he was granted a 
tavern license by the Committee of Safety, but later fell 
under suspicion of having bartered liquor for clothes with 
the soldiers. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Clement, Arent: Baptized April 8, 1722. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Clement, Eldert: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Clement, Johannes: Baptized September 24, 1732. On 
March 1, 1776, he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler 
for service at Lake George and Ticonderoga. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Clement, Peter: Baptized February 22, 1761. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 



146 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Clench, Ralph : Born in 1760 ; died January 19, 1828. A 
native of Schenectady, where he lived until the commence- 
ment of the war. He joined the British forces as a cadet 
in the 42d Regiment and for his conduct in the action 
which terminated in the surrender of General Burgoyne 
was commissioned and transferred to the 8th or King's 
Regiment. Shortly after, he was given a lieutenancy in 
Butler's Rangers and in this corps he served until its 
reduction in 1783. 

Clench, Robeet: Died during the latter part of 1781. He 
kept an inn on the south comer of State and Water 
Streets, which was spoken of as "a good house of enter- 
tainment." This house, which was one of those spared 
in 1690, was destroyed in the fire of 1819. On February 
12, 1776, he was reported to the Committee of Safety for 
making some unbecoming expressions, which upon inves- 
tigation were found not serious enough to warrant pun- 
ishment. In May, 1777, he was recommended to the field 
officers as "a dangerous person." On May 22 he volun- 
tarily took oath that he would take up arms in defense 
of the country in case of any invasion. On July 23, 1778, 
he was cited to appear before the Commissioners of Con- 
spiracies to render satisfaction regarding his conduct 
conformable to the Act respecting persons of a neutral 
or equivocal character. On July 25 he requested time to 
consider taking the Oath of Allegiance and on August 1, 
the Oath was administered. 

Clute, Baetholomew: Bom in Schenectady, December 
30, 1764. He lived here all his life. During the year 
1778 and on various other occasions he performed garri- 
son duty at Schenectady. In March or April, 1779, he 
enlisted in a company of artificers under Captain John 
Clute and served three months at Saratoga and other 
places in the vicinity. On this occasion he found a large 
twelve-inch brass mortar which had been buried by the 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 147 

British at the Surrender of Burgoyne. For this he was 
allowed a compensation by General Schuyler. During the 
summer of the same year he volunteered with a detach- 
ment of militia and Oneida Indians under Captain J. B. 
Vrooman. They marched to Schoharie and assisted in 
capturing a party of runaway Tuscarora Indians. In 
December, 1780, he enrolled under Captain John Myn- 
derse, 2d Albany County Militia, and served in his com- 
pany to the end of the war. On many occasions he acted 
as a scout and Indian spy. He was a member of Captain 
John Crousehorn's company of artillery. In the fall of 
1781 he joined the troops in pursuit of Major Ross and 
Butler under the immediate command of Captain Thomas 
Brower Banker, marching as far as Caughnawaga, where 
he mounted guard for some time and then returned to 
Schenectady. A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Clute, Daniel Toll: Born November 29, 1754; died July 
25, 1815. Buried in Vale Cemetery. He was enrolled 
under Captain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d Albany County Militia, 
and in 1781 was a member of Captain John Crousehorn's 
company of artillery. His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Clute, Frederick: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Clute, Isaac: Born March 15, 1756. During the fall of 
1777, he served near Fort Stanwix in a company of batteau- 
men under Captain Jacobus Peek. In 1778, as a private 
under Captain John Mynderse, 2d Albany County Militia, 
he performed garrison duty at Stone Arabia and also 
served as a batteauman at various places along the Hud- 
son River under Captain Jacobus Peek. In 1779 he 
served at Saratoga in a company of artificers under the 
immediate command of Lieutenant-Colonel Christopher 
Yates, and in 1780 he marched to Ballston when it was 



148 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

attacked. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany- 
County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Clute, Jacob: Bom January 18, 1736. On April 1, 1777, 
he was elected overseer of highways at Schenectady. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia 
and in 1778 he was enrolled under Captain Jesse Van 
Slyck. 

Clute, Jacob P.: Born in Schenectady, March 4, 1759; 
died January 16, 1848. In 1775 he was enrolled under 
Captain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d Albany County Militia. He 
served the whole of the year 1776 on guard duty at Sche- 
nectady. In the summer of 1777 he went on draft to Fort 
Edward, where, and at other posts, he performed six 
weeks' service. He was in the engagement at Snookkill. 
In 1778 he performed nine months' service in Captain 
Christopher Miller's company of artificers employed in 
constructing boats at Coeymans. During the spring and 
fall of 1780 he served with the troops against Sir John 
Johnson, and in October, 1781, with the troops under 
Colonel Willett against Major Ross and Butler. He was 
in the battle of Johnstown and went with the detachment 
that pursued the enemy to the "West Canada Creek. On 
the return to the main army after Butler was killed a 
squad of thirteen became detached and "would have been 
lost in the woods if Jacob P. Clute had not been with 
them and being a perfect woodsman directed them through 
to the Mohawk River." 

Clute, Jellis: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia and in 1778, he was enrolled under 
Captain Jesse Van Slyck. His name also appears on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Clute, John: On August 12, 1777, he was serving as cap- 
tain of a company of fatigue men and laborers. On 
December 9, 1777, he was elected constable at Schenec- 
tady and in 1779 was captain of a company in the Quarter- 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 149 

master's Department, having charge of the public black- 
smiths serving at Saratoga. 

Clute, John Baptist: His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. In 1778 he was enrolled 
under Captain Jesse Van Slyek. He also served under 
Captain Thomas Brower Banker, In August, 1782, he was 
on garrison duty at the Upper Fort, Schoharie, and in 
September of the same year on scout duty at Sacandaga. 
A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Clute, John Curtiss : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Clute, John F. : Born in February, 1748; died July 22, 
1805. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Clute, Peter: Born April 28, 1765; died July 7, 1835. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia. 

Combes, John: Baptized September 8, 1751. He served 
as a private and as a sergeant under Captain John Myn- 
derse, 2d Albany County Militia. 

CoNAN, Daniel: On March 4, 1776, he refused to go to 
Lake George as overseer of carpenters and batteaumen 
under General Schuyler. 

Conde, Adam: Born September 25, 1748; died in Glen- 
ville, September 22, 1824. In 1770 he lived on the west 
comer of Church and Front Streets. He was probably 
enrolled under Captain Jesse Van Slyck. In 1776 he 
served at Saratoga in a company of fatigue men under 
Captain Jacob Vrooman. During the summer and fall 
of 1777 he was with Colonel Wemple's regiment on duty 
at Snookkill, Bemis Heights and other posts occupied by 
the American army. Late in the summer of 1778 he 
performed six weeks' garrison duty at the Lower Fort, 
Schoharie, and later six weeks' duty at Fort Plain. In 



150 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

the fall of 1779 he performed three months' garrison duty 
at Stone Arabia, and in October, 1781, he was on duty 
at Fort Hunter and other posts after Warren's Bush was 
destroyed. 

Conner, Lancaster: On July 11, 1776, he was elected a 
member of the Committee of Safety and on April 1, 1777, 
was elected fire master at Schenectady. On June 15, 1779, 
he was again chosen a member of the Committee of Safety. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Conner, Simon: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

CoNOVER, Samuel: Born in Albany in 1759. He moved to 
Schenectady at the age of sixteen and went to live with 
John Mynderse in order to learn the blacksmith's trade. 
In May, 1777, he enlisted for four months under Captain 
John Mynderse, 2d Albany County Militia, and marched 
to Fort Edward. He was in the engagement at Snook- 
kill. At Stillwater he was wounded in the ankle by the 
accidental discharge of a musket in the hands of one of 
his own company and this rendered him lame for the 
remainder of his life. He was honorably discharged a 
short time before the battle of Saratoga. In November, 
1777, he was drafted, assigned to Captain Price's company 
and detailed for guard duty at Albany. He remained 
there until March, 1778. In July, 1780, he volunteered 
under Colonel Volkert Veeder and marched to Schoharie, 
serving also during this year one month at Stone Arabia. 
A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

CoNSAUL, David : Died previous to May 7, 1818. He served 
under Captains Jesse Van Slyck and John Van Patten, 
2d Albany County Militia. In September, 1782, he went 
on scout duty to Mayfield and Sacandaga. 

CoNSAUL, Manuel: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 151 

CoRL, Henry: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia and the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. 

COEL, John: Born in 1757; died April 24, 1842. Buried 
in Vale Cemetery. In the spring of 1775 he enlisted under 
Captain John Mynderse, 2d Albany County Militia. He 
took part in the expedition to Johnstown in January, 
1776, and in March enlisted in Captain John Clute's com- 
pany of fatigue men and served in it for one year. In 
the summer of 1777 he served under Captain John Myn- 
derse with the Northern Army. He was at Bemis Heights. 
In the fall he enlisted and served in Captain James Peek's 
company of batteaumen employed in transporting provi- 
sions and ammunition from Schenectady to Fort Stanwix. 
In 1778 he performed garrison duty at the Schoharie Forts 
under Captain "Walter Vrooman. In the fall of 1779 he 
mounted guard at Fort Paris and served with the troops 
under General Van Eensselaer at Fort Hunter. In 1780 
he was engaged at Watervliet for the Continental Con- 
gress under Captain Bowman in cutting wood to make 
charcoal for the use of the blacksmiths and artisans of 
the army. In 1781 he was with the troops under Colonel 
Marinus Willett in the pursuit of Major Ross and Walter 
Butler. A pensioner. 

CoRL, William: Bom in 1760; died March 19, 1848. 
Buried in Vale Cemetery. In the spring of 1776 as a 
substitute he marched to the Heldebergh under Captain 
John B. Vrooman, and in the fall of the same year he 
enrolled in the company of Captain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d 
Albany County Militia. In January, 1777, he was serving 
in a company of fatigue men under Captain Jacobus Peek. 
From July until the beginning of October (when he was 
taken sick and obliged to return home) he served with 
the Northern Army at Fort Edward, Stillwater, Fort 
Miller, Saratoga, Van Sehaiek's Island and Snookkill. 
During the years 1778 and 1779 he performed various 



152 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

scout and garrison duties. On January 1, 1780, he again 
enlisted in the company of batteaumen under Captain 
Jacobus Peek. In the fall of 1780 he took part in the 
expedition to Ballston. 

CORNU, Daniel : Baptized December 21, 1740. His lot was 
on the north side of State Street, extending easterly from 
the present line of the canal. His name appears on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia and he saw service 
under Captain Thomas Brower Banker, 

CoRNU, Wessel: Baptized March 18, 1764. On March 1, 
1780, he enlisted in Captain Thomas Brower Banker's 
company, 2d Albany County Militia, commencing service 
in the garrison at Schenectady, seizing there until about 
July 18, when his company was ordered to Beaverdam 
in pursuit of Tories. He served two weeks in each month 
from April to July in garrison at Schenectady. On 
August 1 he marched to Schoharie with a part of Captain 
Banker's and a part of Captain Mynderse's companies 
and there served one month guarding farmers while they 
harvested their crops. On September 1 he returned to 
Schenectady and served one week on garrison duty. He 
performed like service three weeks in October and two 
weeks in November. During 1781 he served in "minute 
service" under Captains Banker and Jesse Van Slyck, 
mostly at Schenectady, although he was sometimes called 
for scout duty along the line of the Mohawk River. In 
September he marched on an alarm some thirty miles to 
the north of Schenectady in pursuit of the enemy who 
retreated without an engagement; during this campaign 
Cornu was absent about one month, most of the time 
being quartered at Ballston. In October and November 
he served two weeks of each month in garrison at Sche- 
nectady, and in 1782 performed various garrison and scout 
duties, marching in July with a detail of forty men under 
Captain Gerrit S. Veeder to Fort Plain and Fort Plank 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 153 

to serve as guard while the crops were being harvested. 
A pensioner. 

CovEL, William: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Crawford, Alexander: He was enrolled under Captain 
Thomas Wasson, 2d Albany County Militia. On Feb- 
ruary 25, 1780, he was promoted to the rank of ensign. 

Crawford, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Crawford, Joseph: He enlisted for nine months at Sche- 
nectady April 1, 1781, as a corporal under Captain Law- 
rence Gross, Colonel Marinus Willett's New York Levies. 
He was later promoted to the rank of sergeant and served 
as such until his discharge in December, 1781. His 
widow's claim for pension was rejected. 

Crousehorn, John: He lived on the east corner of State 
and Jay Streets. He was a tanner by trade. In 1781 
he was appointed captain of a volunteer company of artil- 
lery enlisted in Schenectady and consisting of fifteen men. 
To this company was particularly intrusted the cannon of 
Colonel Wemple's regiment. 

CuMMiNGS, John: Buried August 25, 1801. On June 19, 
1775, he enlisted under Captain Cornelius Van Dyck for 
the defense of Fort Ticonderoga. His name appears on 
the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia enrolled under 
Captain Thomas Brower Banker. 

CuYLER, Cornelius: A merchant. On May 26, 1775, he 
was appointed a member of the first Committee of Safety 
to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of John 
Sanders. On August 11 he was appointed to receive the 
"donation wheat for the poor of Boston," and on Novem- 
ber 17 to draw up articles to be signed by the various 
officers before receiving their commissions. On December 
29 he was one of the town's magistrates. On October 9, 



154 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

1776, he was appointed by the Committee of Safety of 
the State of New York one of a committee in Albany 
County ''to purchase all the coarse woolen cloth, linsey- 
woolsey, blankets, woolen hose, mittens, coarse linen, felt 
hats and shoes fitting for soldiers and to have the linen 
made up into shirts." 

CuYLER, John: Enrolled under Captain Thomas Brower 
Banker, 2d Albany County Militia. On December 29, 
1775, he was one of the town's magistrates. On February 
10, 1776, he was elected a member of the Committee of 
Safety, and served as a member on several subsequent 
Committees. On April 1, 1777, he was elected assessor, 
and on June 7 appointed one of a committee to consult 
with the inhabitants of Tryon County regarding the elec- 
tion of governor. On June 15, 1779, he was chosen a mem- 
ber of the Committee of Safety and on July 9 appointed 
chairman of the Board to succeed Abraham Oothout 
resigned. 

Davis, Abraham: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Davis, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

De Garmo, Matthew: Bom in Albany. During the Revo- 
lution he lived in Schenectady. He was enrolled part 
of the time under Captain Jellis J. Fonda and part under 
Captain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d Albany County Militia. 
Early in the spring of 1777 he enlisted in a company 
of batteaumen under Captain Tenuis Fisher and served 
until the fall (when the company was discharged), trans- 
porting stores from Albany to Lake George and other 
places. In January, 1778, he enlisted in the Quarter- 
master's Department at Saratoga under the immediate 
charge of Colonel Christopher Yates, and in the fall of 
the same year served on an expedition up the Mohawk 
Eiver. In the fall of 1779 under Captain Ahasueras Mar- 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 155 

sells he went to Fort Hunter and other places along the 
Valley. In August, 1782, he was on garrison duty at the 
Upper Fort, Schoharie. His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 
A pensioner. 

Degolter, James : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Degolyer, Joseph: Born at Kinderhook in the year 1762, 
He moved to Glenville in the year 1769. In 1778 he 
entered the service in Captain John Van Patten's com- 
pany, 2d Albany County Militia, as a substitute for Har- 
manus Veeder, and performed garrison duty at the 
Upper Fort, Schoharie. In 1779 he served at Fort Plank, 
and in October, 1780, with the troops under General Van 
Rensselaer took part in the battle of Klock's Field. From 
the middle of July to the end of November, 1781, he was 
on garrison duty at the Middle Fort, Schoharie. A pen- 
sioner. 

De Graff, Abraham: Born April 20, 1754; died June 1, 
1810. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

De Graff, Andreas: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

De Graff, Cornelius : Born November 23, 1738 ; died July 
11, 1830. He lived on the south side of State Street. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Mili- 
tia under Captain Thomas Brower Banker and on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty 
Rights. 

De Graff, Daniel: Born May 26, 1708; died March 12, 
1790. On April 24, 1777, he was detailed as a wagoner 
for service from Albany to Lake George. 

De Graff, Isaac: Born in Schenectady, November 16, 
1757; died December 21, 1844. In October, 1776, he 



156 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

entered the service as a deputy commissary of issues, 
being appointed by Elisha Avery. He was stationed at 
Johnstown and served until August, 1777, when Avery 
resigned. He continued to hold office under various ap- 
pointments until July 1, 1780, when in consequence of a 
change in the commissary department his term of service 
closed. A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

De Graff, Jesse : Born January 13, 1745 ; died August 30, 
1812. In 1777 he was enrolled under Captain Jesse Van 
Slyck, 2d Albany County Militia. On July 2, 1779, he 
was appointed one of a committee of four to sell salt to 
the people of the district. About 1780 he served as a 
captain of the guard at Schenectady. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty 
Eights, 

De Graff, John: Born in Glenville. In 1775 he enrolled 
under Captain John Van Patten, 2d Albany County Mili- 
tia. In January, 1776, he went with the forces under 
General Schuyler to Johnstown, and in October of the 
same year was on duty at Fort Ann for one month. In 
the spring of 1777 he was drafted in a company mustered 
at Schenectady under Captain Jellis J. Fonda and per- 
formed three months' service at "West Point. In Sep- 
tember, 1777, he marched to Bemis Heights, returning 
home after Burgoyne's surrender. In May, 1779, he 
marched with a detachment to Sacandaga to erect a block- 
house, and later performed garrison duty at the Scho- 
harie Forts. From May to December, 1780, he was con- 
stantly on duty. His company was stationed in Glenville 
and at a place called Tinker's Hill erected a picket fort. 
His company was employed at this time in pursuing 
Indians and Tories and to prevent incursions of the 
enemy. In October of this same year De Graff marched 
on an alarm to Palatine, being out two weeks. A pen- 
sioner. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 157 

De Graff, John N, : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

De Graff, Nicholas : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

De Graff, Simon : Born April 6, 1753. On March 1, 1776, 
he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler for service 
at Lake George and Ticonderoga, His name appears on 
the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

De Graff, William : Buried September 22, 1803. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

De La Grange, Myndert: On August 12, 1777, he was 
taken into custody as a "disaffected person." 

Dellamont, Abraham: Baptized July 19, 1729; died 
December 23, 1792. He lived at the Norman's Kill. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Dellamont, Hendrick : Bom October 24, 1745 ; died August 
20, 1820. Buried in Vale Cemetery. In 1781 he owned 
the lot on Union Street where the old Court House now 
stands. He served as a private and as a sergeant in the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Denny, John : On June 20, 1775, having just returned from 
Canada he was cross-questioned by the Committee of 
Safety regarding conditions there. On February 8, 1776, 
he appeared before the Committee to give information 
against one John Freel of Johnstown. On February 29 
he accepted a recruiting warrant from General Schuyler 
with the rank of ensign. On November 21, 1776, he was 
promoted to the rank of second lieutenant, 1st New York 
Line, and in this capacity he served until October 7, 1778, 
when he resigned from the service. 

De Spitzer, Aaron: Buried in Vale Cemetery. In June, 
1780, as a corporal under Captain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d 
Albany County Militia, he went in command of a detail to 



158 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Beaverdam and Harpersfield. He served also in the Levies 
under Colonel Morris Graham. 

De Spitzer, Gerrit: Bom June 28, 1758; died June 2, 
1801. Buried in Vale Cemetery. On September 24, 1776, 
he enlisted in Captain John A. Bradt's company of State 
Rangers. In 1778 he was serving as a sergeant under 
Captain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d Albany County Militia. In 
May he commanded a detail to Sacandaga and in April, 
1779, a detail to Ballston and Glens Falls. In November 
he commanded at the Upper Fort, Schoharie, and went in 
charge of a detail for scout duty to the Norman's Kill 
and Beaverdam. In April, 1780, he went on scout duty 
to Glens Falls and Lake George, and in June, 1781, was 
in command of a detail sent to Sacandaga to watch the 
movements of the Sacandaga Indians. In September he 
went to Beaverdam and Harpersfield on scout duty, and in 
July, 1782, commanded a party sent by the Schenectady 
Committee to Harpersfield to reconnoiter and spy on the 
enemy. In September he was in command of a scout at 
Sacandaga and Mayfield. 

Dilleno, Hendric: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

DoRN, Abraham: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

DORN, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia and the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. The name of John Dorn appears 
also on the rolls of the 3d Company, 1st New York Line. 
He enlisted on March 11, 1777, and was mustered to the 
end of the war. 

Doty, Rev. John: In 1773 he became rector of St. George's 
Church. He considered himself bound by the Oath of 
Allegiance to adhere to the British Government. In May, 
1777, he was recommended to the field officers as "a dan- 
gerous person." He was brought before the Committee 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 159 

of Safety and accused of plotting against the State. He 
denied the charge of plotting but declared that he was 
loyal to England. He was committed to the Albany jail 
but was soon discharged. He was, subsequent to his 
return to Schenectady, taken from his bed by two armed 
men and with some others hurried to Albany where an 
oath (of neutrality, as he believed) was proposed to him. 
This oath he refused to take and notwithstanding his 
refusal he was permitted to return to Schenectady where 
he remained until the defeat of General Burgoyne, when 
he procured permission to retire to Canada. General 
Gates offered him a living of £200 per annum if he would 
remain, but this he refused. He was later appointed chap- 
lain of Sir John Johnson's 1st Battalion. He retired on 
half pay and died in England. His property in Sche- 
nectady, which was confiscated, was three hundred and 
fifty-three acres of land, valued at £239 ; a chamber organ, 
which he placed in the Church for security, and a "toler- 
able" library. 

Douw, Abraham: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Duncan, John : Bom in 1722 ; died May 5, 1791. He came 
to Schenectady in 1755, and was a merchant of consid- 
erable means, having his warehouse on the northwest 
corner of "Washington Avenue and Union Street. Soon 
after his establishment he took into partnership James 
Phyn, a London merchant. The firm of Duncan & Phyn 
became widely known, and both men very wealthy. The 
business was later carried on by the EUices, on the retire- 
ment of Mr. Duncan. Mr. Duncan had a city residence 
on the southeast corner of Union and Ferry Streets, and 
a country seat comprising some eight hundred acres 
known as the Hermitage situated in Niskayuna, of which 
the present estate of Mr. Welton Stanford comprises a 
part. He lived in Schenectady after the war and died 
here. On March 11, 1776, General Washington informed 



160 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

the Committee of Safety that he had been informed that 
Duncan had three hundred stand of arms. On May 21 
the Board was informed that a number of enemies to the 
cause of liberty were gathered at his house. The Board, 
however, did not feel justified in taking any action, as 
the Hermitage was outside the Schenectady district. On 
December 19 he was ordered confined to the limits of his 
farm until further notice and required to give a bond of 
£500 for his good behavior and the carrying out of the 
order. On March 28, 1777, he was paroled by the Com- 
mittee of Safety. In May he was recommended to the 
field officers as "a dangerous person," and on May 3 
arrested in order to be taken to Albany, but was released 
after giving his oath that he would take up arms in 
defense of the country in case of any invasion. On 
October 16 the inhabitants petitioned General Gates for 
his removal as commissary for the purchase of supplies 
for the hospital, and on November 7 he resigned. On 
July 23, 1778, he was cited to appear before the Com- 
missioners of Conspiracies to render satisfaction regard- 
ing his conduct conformable to the Act respecting per- 
sons of a neutral or equivocal character. He was unable 
to attend because of illness, but on August 1 appeared 
and requested time to consider taking the Oath of Alle- 
giance. On August 8 he again appeared and stated that 
while he "conceived himself not to be comprehended 
within the meaning of the Act nevertheless to show his 
farther zeal and attachment to the State and the cause 
of America, he was willing and ready to take the Oath 
voluntarily." This he accordingly did. On August 16, 
1780, he was reported as having received letters from the 
enemy. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia and the 2d Albany County Militia, Land 
Bounty Rights. 

Duncan, Richard: Died in February, 1819. He was living 
with his father in Schenectady when the war broke out. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 161 

In June, 1776, under an assumed name he accompanied 
to Johnstown General McLean, an officer of the British 
service who had come to the house in disguise, endeavor- 
ing to make his way to Canada. In May, 1777, he was 
recommended to the field officers as a "dangerous per- 
son." He was appointed a captain in the British army 
and joined the troops at Saratoga, bringing with him not 
a few volunteers. He remained with the troops until a 
little while before the Convention, when with General 
Burgoyne's permission he left to join his corps at Ticon- 
deroga accompanied by a number of other soldiers. The 
band was pursued and fired upon by the American troops 
but no one was taken prisoner. He was in immediate 
command of a company of regular troops under Sir John 
Johnson in his attack upon the Mohawk River settlements 
in 1780, and is said to have commanded "with great gal- 
lantry and success on the retreats, when attacked by a 
spirited regiment of the army of General Robert Van Rens- 
selaer. " He remained in the army until the reduction of 
his regiment in 1783. Captain Duncan "was never taxed 
with cruelty or severity by the settlers" and after his 
father's death in 1791, he resided for many years at the 
Hermitage, "an accomplished Christian gentleman, of 
extremely urbane manners and very much respected." 

DuNLAP, James: He served as a private in Captain Jacob 
Reed's company, 2d or New York Regiment of artillery. 
He lost his eyesight, was transferred to the Corps of 
Invalids and discharged April 10, 1783. 

Earley, Edward: On August 20, 1776, he was serving as a 
member of Captain John A. Bradt's company of State 
Rangers. On April 19, 1777, he was granted a tavern 
license by the Committee of Safety. He was probably an 
enlisted soldier, for on September 11 he was detailed as a 
guard to accompany a prisoner to Albany, 



162 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Ellice, Alexander : A merchant from London in business 
in Schenectady as early as 1768. Known to have been 
an open enemy to the American cause. In May, 1775, 
he was said to have "harangued the people in the street 
and endeavored to discourage them from forming a com- 
mittee of safety." In the fall he moved to England. 

Ellice, James: A merchant from London in business in 
Schenectady as early as 1768. He remained here during 
and after the war. On April 13, 1776, he was given a 
certificate by the Committee of Safety to the effect that he 
had signed the General Association and that to their 
knowledge he had done nothing against the American 
cause. On May 25 he was given a pass to go to German 
Flats on business. In May, 1777, he was recommended to 
the field officers as a "dangerous person," and on the 
twenty-second voluntarily took oath that he would take up 
arms in defense of the country in case of any invasion. On 
May 1, 1778, he was brought before the Commissioners of 
Conspiracies for "speaking words that in the opinion of 
the Board might have a dangerous tendency and prove 
detrimental to the liberties of America." On July 14 
he was summoned "to render satisfaction regarding his 
conduct as a neutral and equivocal character." On July 
16 he refused to take the Oath of Allegiance and was 
requested "to hold himself in readiness to go off in eight 
days." On July 20 the matter was reported to the Sec- 
retary of State, and on August 1 he declared his readi- 
ness to take the Oath. He was not permitted to do so, 
however, as the law did not allow the Oath to be adminis- 
tered to one who had once refused to take it. He was 
ordered to be ready on August 14 for transportation to 
the enemy's lines, and on that day was taken into close 
confinement in accordance with orders from Governor 
Clinton. On May 19, 1779, the Oath of Allegiance was 
administered to him as authorized by the amended Act. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 163 

Ellice, Robert: A merchant from London in business in 
Schenectady as early as 1768. On April 13, 1776, Gen- 
eral Schuyler was informed by the Committee of Safety 
that he had not signed the General Association and that 
he was looked upon as an enemy to the American cause 
of liberty. On April 22 he was refused a certificate for 
the purpose of obtaining a passport as being an enemy. 
On April 24 he signed an affidavit to the effect that he 
had not signed the General Association and openly de- 
clared himself as a friend of the American cause for the 
reason that he had a great deal of property up country 
and that he felt such action would be detrimental to the 
settling of his affairs. Upon this declaration he was given 
the certificate of character requested. 

Empie, John : Born October 3, 1731. His name appears on 
the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Fairly, Caleb: Baptized December 7, 1735. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia and 
the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Fairly, John: Baptized May 28, 1732. In 1778 he was 
a member of Captain Jesse Van Slyck's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Felthousen, Christopfel: Died in 1799. On March 1, 
1776, he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler for 
service at Lake George and Ticonderoga. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land 
Bounty Rights. 

Felthousen, John: Born in Schenectady, January 12, 
1764. In 1779, when fifteen years old, he substituted for 
his father Christoffel and others. In the spring of 1780 
he enlisted under Captain James McGee, Colonel Morris 
Graham's Levies, and served four months, during which 
time he marched to West Point, Dobbs Ferry and other 
posts. At Dobbs Ferry he took part in an encounter with 
a British brig. After this period of service he enrolled 



164 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



under Captain J. B. Vrooman, 2d Albany County Militia, 
and served to the end of the war. He went to Beaver- 
dam twice, to Fort Hunter, Fort Paris and Johnstown, 
performing garrison duty at the latter places for a period 
of about one month each. When not out on expeditions 
he mounted guard at Schenectady. A pensioner under 
the Act of June 7, 1832. 
Fetherly, John: On August 12, 1777, he was arrested 
and sent to Albany as implicated in a Tory plot. 

Flansburgh, William F. : Born in Schenectady and resided 
here at the beginning of the war. At the time of his enlist- 
ment in the regular troops he was only twelve or thirteen 
years of age. He was in the battle of White Plains and 
Monmouth. In the spring of 1780 he enrolled under Cap- 
tain Walter Vrooman in the New York Levies, and in 
the fall of the same year was detailed with a company of 
about sixty men to destroy boats of the enemy lying on 
Onondaga Lake. While returning they were all taken 
prisoners and Flansburgh after many vicissitudes was 
taken to London, He was later brought back to Canada, 
whence he made his escape and reached Schenectady soon 
after the war was over. A pensioner. 

Fletcher, : On May 22, 1775, it was reported 

to the Committee of Safety "by good authority that one 
Mr. Fletcher a schoolmaster in the Town had said that 
Col. Guy Johnson would come down the River with 500 
Indians and cut us all off, and further that it would be 
right, and if he had it in his power he would do the same 
for we were all rebels." Fletcher failed to appear when 
summoned before the Board. 

Folger, Benjamin: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Folger, Thomas: Born in England, April 26, 1750. In 
1774 he came to Currybush, now Princetown, and in the 
spring of 1775 volunteered and was assigned to the com- 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 165 

pany of Captain Thomas Wasson, 2d Albany County 
Militia. In the fall of 1776 he served at Fort Edward. 
In 1777 he was at Fort George when destroyed by the 
American troops, and took part in Schuyler's retreat. 
He was discharged the day after General Gates arrived 
at Bemis Heights, his service having expired. He re- 
turned home and had been there but two days when he 
was again ordered out. He performed garrison duty on 
various occasions and several times went in pursuit of 
Joseph Bettis. In the fall of 1780 he was at the Middle 
Fort, Schoharie, when Timothy Murphy fired on the flag 
of truce as it approached the fort with a demand for sur- 
render, and in the fall of 1781 he marched with the troops 
in pursuit of Major Ross and Butler, on which occasion, 
accompanying the party of Oneidas who followed Walter 
Butler, he was present at his death. A pensioner. 

Fonda, Abraham: Born July 17, 1715; died February 13, 
1805. He lived in the house No. 27 Front Street built 
by himself in 1752. On May 7, 1776, he was elected a 
member of the third Committee of Safety, and on January 
15, 1777, was appointed chairman. He served also on the 
Committees taking office June 2, 1777, and January 5, 
1778. On August 8, 1778, he was serving as a justice of 
the peace. 

Fonda, Jacob G. : Born in the Schenectady Township, 
August, 1761 ; died in West Glenville, December 8, 1859. 
He was living in Albany in the spring of 1778, when he 
enlisted under Captain Gerrit Groesbeck, 1st Albany 
County Militia. He performed various garrison and scout 
duties and was in the battle of Klock's Field with the 
troops under General Van Rensselaer. His claim for pen- 
sion was rejected. 

Fonda, Jellis A.: Born October 25, 1759; died at Chit- 
tenango, August 27, 1834. Buried in Vale Cemetery. In 
1777 he was serving as an ensign in Captain Jesse Van 



166 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Slyck's company, 2d Albany County Militia. He per- 
formed service at Fort Ann, Fort George and Fort 
Edward, and was in the battle of Bemis Heights. In 
1778 he was enrolled in Captain John Mynderse's com- 
pany and attached to General Frederick Visscher's bri- 
gade. He was promoted to the rank of lieutenant. Dur- 
ing the year 1780 he served as a lieutenant and adjutant 
in Colonel Morris Graham's Levies at "West Point and 
Harper's Ferry. At West Point he acted as brigade major 
for a few weeks in the absence of Major Lansing. He 
''was one of the 1200 men whom General Arnold (pre- 
vious to his treachery) sent away to Fort Edward to 
weaken the garrison at West Point." During the years 
1781 and 1782 he was attached to the Levies under Colonel 
Willet with the same rank as before. He saw service at 
Fort Plain, German Flats, Fort Stanwix and at the battles 
of Torlock and Johnstown. On November 1, 1782, he was 
promoted to the rank of captain. In February, 1783, he 
went with the expedition to Fort Oswego under Colonel 
Marinus Willett. A pensioner. 

Fonda, Jellis J. : Born January 13, 1751 ; died in 1839. 
Buried in the family cemetery in Glenville. On May 27, 

1775, he was appointed captain of a company of minute 
men, which came to be known as "The Greens" because 
of the color of their uniforms. On July 10, 1775, he 
refused an offer of a recruiting warrant from the Provin- 
cial Congress. On October 20, 1775, a commission as 
captain was issued in his name by the Provincial Con- 
gress. He was reappointed June 20, 1778, the commis- 
sion being signed by Governor Clinton. In January, 

1776, and again in June he went to Johnstown. In the 
fall of the same year, he marched with his company to 
Stillwater where they were in camp for some time. From 
Stillwater they marched to Fort Ann, thence down Wood 
Creek to Skenesborough as guards for boats. He served 
with particular distinction in the campaign against Bur- 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 167 

goyne and at the battle of Bemis Heights. He served in 
many expeditions and on various garrison duties during 
the succeeding years of the war, being especially zealous 
in the discharge of his offices. While on guard duty at 
Schenectady he was spoken of as "attending roll call and 
giving orders every morning at daybreak, sometimes 2 
hours before day." He was actively engaged in the battle 
of Johnstown (October, 1781) and in the pursuit of the 
enemy, and on this occasion he "so highly distinguished 
himself that Colonel Willett addressed him a letter of 
thanks for his services and praising him for his intrep- 
idity." A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

FoRSETH, George: A clerk in the employment of James 
Ellice. On April 13, 1776, General Schuyler was informed 
by the Committee of Safety that he had not signed the 
General Association and that they looked upon him as an 
enemy to the American cause of liberty. In May, 1777, 
he was recommended to the field officers as "a dangerous 
person." On May 22 he voluntarily took oath that he 
would take up arms in defense of the country in case of 
any invasion. 

Fort, John : Born June 14, 1725 ; died in 1821. He served 
as a sergeant under Captain Thomas Brower Banker, 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Fort, John D. : Baptized April 1, 1750. He served as a 
private and as a sergeant under Captain Thomas Brower 
Banker, 2d Albany County Militia. 

Frank, David : He served as a private under Captain Jacob 
Schermerhorn and as a private and sergeant under Cap- 
tain Thomas Brower Banker, 2d Albany County Militia. 

Freeman, Richard: In 1776 he enlisted in a company of 
Tryon County Rangers and served nine months. In May, 
1777, he enlisted under Captain Giles Wolcott, Colonel 
Seth Warner's regiment, and served until July 15, 1779, 



168 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

when he was taken prisoner by the enemy "on the 14 
Mile Island" in Lake George after an engagement "in 
which the greater part of the troops were killed and 
scalped." He made his escape in October, 1780, and on 
his return found his regiment disbanded. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. He lived in Schenectady until 1819. 
A pensioner under the Act of March 18, 1818. 

French, David : In 1781, he was a member of Captain John 
Crousehom's company of artillery. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Freys, Hendrick: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

FuRMAN, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Gardinier, James: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Gardner, William : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Glen, Henry: Baptized July 13, 1739; died January 6, 
1814. He was for some years a trader in company with 
his brother, John, and Jacobus Teller. On May 6, 1775, 
he was chosen a member of the first Committee of Safety. 
He served as a representative from Albany County in the 
first, second and third Provincial Congresses. On July 
23, 1775, he was appointed one of a committee to go to 
Johnstown to inquire into the causes of the disturbances 
in that section. On February 10, 1776, he was appointed 
captain of one of the newly organized militia companies 
but did not serve actively as such. During the war he 
acted as deputy quartermaster, having charge of all sup- 
plies at Schenectady. During the spring of 1781, he 
pledged his personal credit to build sixteen batteaux for 
the service. He was appointed one of the three commis- 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 169 

sioners of Indian affairs in accordance with the Act of 
March 25, 1783. 

Glen, Isaac: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. In the fall of 1777 he was at 
Stillwater, but returned home before the battle of Bemis 
Heights. On July 28, 1778, he was chosen first lieutenant 
in a company of Exempts formed in Schenectady under 
Captain Jacob Schermerhorn. 

Glen, Jacob: On April 21, 1779, it was reported to the 
Commissioners of Conspiracies that he had drunk "success 
to the British Army and wished they might conquer 
America with many other Expression's inimical to the 
American Cause." 

Glen, John : Baptized July 2, 1735 ; died September 23, 
1828. He was a trader in company with his brother, 
Henry, and Jacobus Teller. He built and occupied the 
house on Washington Avenue now numbered 58. He was 
a highly esteemed personal friend of General "Washington. 
In 1775 he bought the tract of land on the Hudson which 
afterwards became known as Glens Falls. On July 25, 
1778, he was cited to appear before the Commissioners 
of Conspiracies to give satisfaction touching his conduct 
during the war agreeable to the act respecting persons of 
neutral and equivocal character, and on August 1 took 
the Oath prescribed by the Act. His name appears on 
the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Glen, John Sanders: Baptized January 25, 1733. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

GoFF, Isaac: On June 19, 1775, he enlisted under Captain 
Cornelius Van Dyck for the defense of Ticonderoga. He 
served in the Canadian campaign under Captain Barent 
Ten Eyck, 2d New York Line, and was at the taking of St. 
John's, Chamblee, Montreal and at the siege of Quebec. 
He returned with the regiment to Saratoga and was dis- 



170 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADT 

charged under Captain Andrew Finck about December 20, 
1776. 

Gordon, Charles: He was living in Schenectady in 1779. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia. 

Gordon, Joseph: In 1783 his home was on Church Street 
next north of the Dutch Church lot. His name appears on 
the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, enrolled under 
Captain John Mynderse. On March 1, 1776, he signed an 
agreement with Philip Schuyler for service at Lake George 
and Ticonderoga. 

Gordon, Robert: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Gordon, William : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, enrolled under Captain John 
Mynderse. On March 1, 1776, he signed an agreement 
with Philip Schuyler for service at Lake George and 
Ticonderoga. 

Gravenberg, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. In 1778 he was enrolled under 
Captain Jesse Van Slyck. 

Gregg, Andrew: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Gregg, James: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Gregg, John: On August 6, 1777, the Committee of Safety 
was informed that he had drunk the health of King George 
the Third at Bradt's Tavern. On being summoned before 
the Board he "made the most humble concessions" and 
''out of compassion to his family he was discharged." 

Groot, Abraham C. : Died in 1818. His name appears on 
the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 171 

Groot, Amos: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Groot, Andrew: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Groot, Cornelius : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Groot, Elias: On October 10, 1776, he enlisted in Captain 
John A. Bradt's company of State Rangers. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 12th Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. 

Groot, Philip: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Groot, Simon : Born in 1749. His name appears on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, enrolled under 
Captain Jellis J. Fonda. In September, 1777, he was at 
Stillwater but not in the battle, being out on scout duty. 

Groot, Simon A. : Baptized October 31, 1756 ; died March 
4, 1838. In the spring of 1775 he was enrolled as a private 
in the company of Captain Thomas Brower Banker, 2d 
Albany County Militia. This same year he served six 
months as an artificer at Lake George under Jacob Vroo- 
man. In January, 1776, he took part in the expedition 
to Johnstown. He was at Ticonderoga when the fort was 
evacuated and at Bemis Heights under General Arnold. 
He took part in Sullivan's expedition and was at the West 
Canada Creek when Walter Butler was killed, on which 
occasion he took a prisoner. He performed various garri- 
son duties and went on various details for the apprehension 
of Tories. He was for a long time captain of the city guard 
at Schenectady. A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 
1832. 

Groot, Simon C. : Baptized November 17, 1745 ; died in 
West Glenville, February 10, 1832. His name appears on 



172 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, as serving under 
Captain Thomas Brower Banker. 

Guthrie, Abraham : He served as a private in the 1st New 
York Line. 

Hackney, George: In 1778 he served at the Middle Fort, 
Schoharie, under Captain W. B. Vrooman, and in the 
summer of 1779 at Sacandaga erecting fortifications under 
Captain Thomas Brower Banker. In the fall of the same 
year he was on duty at Fort Paris. In October, 1781, he 
was wounded in the head by a tomahawk at Johnstown 
and confined for some time in the hospital. His widow 
received a pension. 

Hagedorn, Harmanus: His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Hall, John: On October 11, 1776, he enlisted in Captain 
John A. Bradt's company of State Rangers. He was 
discharged on January 21, 1777, having returned his 
bounty. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Hall, John W. : On March 1, 1776, he signed an agreement 
with Philip Schuyler for service at Lake George and 
Ticonderoga. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Hall, Nicholas: Baptized July 27, 1748; died April 17, 
1828. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia as serving under Captain Jesse Van Slyck. 

Hall, William : A weaver. On October 18, 1776, he en- 
listed in Captain John A. Bradt's company of State 
Rangers. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Hanna, Alexander: He served as a corporal under Cap- 
tain Thomas Wasson, 2d Albany County Militia. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 173 

Hare, Peter: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Harnel (Harner), Samuel: His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Harsey, William : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Hedget, Abraham: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Helmer, Henyost: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Hendrick, Peter: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Henry, John : Bom in Schenectady, February 24, 1764. In 
February, 1780, he enlisted under Captain John Mynderse, 
2d Albany County Militia. Previous to this enrollment he 
performed guard duty at Schenectady. He served on 
several expeditions notably to Ballston in the fall of 1780, 
and to Warren's Bush after it was burned. His claim for 
pension was rejected. 

Hetherington, Joseph: His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Hilton, Benjamin: On May 29, 1775, he was appointed a 
lieutenant in a company for the defense of Ticonderoga, 
but on June 23 gave in his resignation and refused to 
serve. On January 14, 1776, a letter signed by Hilton 
addressed to Sheriff White and containing ''some expres- 
sions very unfriendly to the American cause" was deliv- 
ered to the Committee of Safety. On January 15, when 
brought before the Board, Hilton declared that he was 
the author of the letter, and that he knew he was doing 
wrong but never thought it would be discovered. In com- 
pliance with a resolution of the Committee he promised 
to cause the letter and his declaration to be published three 
weeks successively in "Hugh Gaines newspapers." 



174 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

HooGTELiNG, Jacobus : On July 12, 1777, he was arrested 
by order of the Committee of Safety and sent to the Albany 
jail for endeavoring to persuade two men to desert to the 
British. There was a Jacobus Hoogteling who, judging 
from the minutes of the Commissioners of Conspiracies, 
bore a somewhat unsavory reputation and caused this 
Board considerable annoyance. 

HoopLE, George or Jerry: His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. In 1781 he was a mem- 
ber of Captain John Crousehorn's company of artillery, 
and in July, 1782, was on scout duty at Harpersfield. 

HoRSFORD, John: Baptized November 4, 1758. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

HoRSFORD, Reuben: From Farmington, Connecticut. A 
hatter. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

House, John George : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

House, Peter: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

HuGHAN, John: On July 10, 1775, he made application to 
the Committee of Safety to raise a company, stating that 
he already had twenty men engaged. Permission was 
refused because many of the men enlisted had not signed 
the Association. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Htdenburgh, Sybrant: His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia, 

jACQxnsH, John: On October 31, 1776, he enlisted in Cap- 
tain John A. Bradt's company of State Rangers. 

James, William : On April 19, 1777, he was granted a tav- 
ern license by the Committee of Safety. His name appears 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 175 

on the rolls of the 2d New York Line and the 2d Albany- 
County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

EIees, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Kennedy, Alexander: His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Kennedy, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia and the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. 

Kennedy^ Samuel: Born at Currybush (Prineetown) in 
1760. In May, 1776, he enlisted in Captain John Winn's 
company of Tryon County Rangers. He served in this 
company until about February 1, 1777. In June of this 
year he volunteered in an independent company under 
a Captain Canute [sic] and served until the end of August, 
after which he volunteered under Captain Thomas Was- 
son, 2d Albany County Militia, and served with the 
Northern Army until after the surrender of Burgoyne. 
In the spring of 1778 he enlisted as a batteauman and 
served for nine months between Albany and New York. 
Subsequent to 1778 he served with the militia on various 
expeditions. A pensioner, 

Kingsley, Joseph: On February 8, 1776, he stated to 
the Committee of Safety under examination that ''he 
differed with them in sentiments in regard to the present 
dispute between Great Britain and the Colonies." He 
was ordered committed to the Albany jail to await trial 
at the next general meeting of the Committee. He re- 
turned to Schenectady on his release and on April 27 was 
summoned and ordered to pay twenty shillings, the 
amount expended in connection with his imprisonment, 
for a sled and two minute men to carry him to Albany. On 
his refusal to pay he was given the choice of so doing or of 
again being confined in the Albany jail. On May 1 the 
chairman reported the account paid. 



176 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

KiNSELA, Joseph: Born at Lisburn, Ireland, in 1749; died 
April 15, 1816. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Kittle, Adam: On December 28, 1776, he enlisted in Cap- 
tain John A. Bradt's company of State Rangers. In 
1778, he was enrolled in the 2d Albany County Militia 
under Captain Jesse Van Slyck. He died a little before 
October 7, 1781, and was said to have been killed in the 
war. 

Kittle, Daniel: Baptized September 23, 1733. He was 
enrolled in Captain Jesse Van Slyck 's company, 2d Albany 
County Militia. In 1777 he served with the Northern 
Army at Stillwater and Bemis Heights, and in 1778 with 
a company of batteaumen under Captain Cornelius Bar- 
hydt. In 1779 he performed garrison duty at Fort Plain 
and Fort Plank. He served as batteauman and on gar- 
rison duty on various occasions to the end of the war. 
His widow received a pension. 

Kittle, David: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Kittle, Ezra: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Kittle, John : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Lambert, John : Born in 1753 ; died July 26, 1809. A 
schoolmaster. He lived on the east side of Church Street, 
about midway between Union and State Streets. On 
June 19, 1775, he enlisted under Captain Cornelius Van 
Dyck for the defense of Ticonderoga. He subsequently 
served as a private under Captain John Mynderse and as 
a private and sergeant under Captain Jellis J. Fonda, 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Lansing, Abraham G. : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 177 

Lansing, Alexander C. : Baptized September 8, 1751. On 
March 1, 1776, he signed an agreement with Philip Schuy- 
ler for service at Lake George and Ticonderoga, 

Lansing, Cornelius: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany Comity Militia. 

Lansing, Gerrit G. : Baptized February 8, 1756. On Novem- 
ber 7, 1775, he was elected a member of the second Com- 
mittee of Safety. On March 4, 1776, he was appointed 
overseer of batteaumen at Lake George, and on March 5 
was objected to by certain persons as being too young to 
serve, although the objection was not sustained by the 
Committee. On July 9, 1777, he gave the use of a wagon 
for the service. He served as a private under Captain 
Jellis J. Fonda, and as quartermaster in the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Lansing, John G. : On May 24, 1775, he was appointed 
with John Post keeper of three hundred and thirty-eight 
pounds of gunpowder purchased from Daniel Campbell. 
On June 23, 1775, he was appointed ensign in Captain 
Cornelius Van Dyek's company for the defense of Ticon- 
deroga to fill the vacancy caused by the promotion of 
Cornelius Van Slyck. On July 10, 1775, he was recom- 
mended to the Provincial Congress to fill the position of 
first lieutenant in the recruiting service. On February 
28, 1776, he was serving with the New York regiments in 
Canada with the rank of second lieutenant. On October 
7, 1776, he was serving in Colonel John Nicholson's regi- 
ment with the rank of first lieutenant. In 1779 he was 
adjutant in the 3d Tryon County Militia under Colonel 
Frederick Visscher, serving in September or October of 
that year at Fort Plank and Stone Arabia. 

Lansing, John S. : Baptized March 17, 1745. On Septem- 
ber 5, 1776, he enlisted in Captain John A. Bradt's com- 
pany of State Rangers. 



178 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Laraway, Isaac: Born in 1756; died June 3, 1828. He 
served as a private in the 5th New York Line and in the 
3d Albany County Militia. He received a pension of $96 
per annum and after his death his widow was allowed $30 
per annum. 

Latta, William: On October 30, 1776, he enlisted in Cap- 
tain John A. Bradt's company of State Rangers, being 
discharged on January 23, 1777, as unfit for duty. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 3d Albany County Militia. 

Lewis, Henry: In 1778, he enlisted under Captain James 
Rosekrans, 5th New York Line. He served nine months 
after which he was discharged for ** inability. " A pen- 
sioner under the Act of March 18, 1818. 

Lewis, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Lewis, William: Baptized November 5, 1720. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia as 
serving under Captain John Van Patten. 

LiDDLE, Andrew: A native of Ireland. He was living in 
Schenectady when the war broke out. A blacksmith by 
trade and evidently prosperous as he is said to have had 
a home well furnished and apprentices to aid him in his 
work. In July, 1777, he joined General Burgoyne's army 
at Saratoga and served until its capitulation. While 
attempting to join the British forces in Canada he was 
taken prisoner and confined in the Albany jail. On May 
2, 1778, he was released on his entering into "Recogniz- 
ance for his good behaviour and Monthly appearance" 
before any of the Commissioners of Conspiracies at Sche- 
nectady. All his property was confiscated "some plun- 
dered, some sold at vendue." 

LiGHTHALL, ABRAHAM (ABRAHAM J. OR W.) : Baptized 

September 12, 1753. In 1776 he served in a company of 
artificers under Captain Jacob Yrooman, and in 1777 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 179 

two months in the Quartermaster's Department during 
the campaign against Burgoyne. In 1778 he was drafted 
for service in the Levies from Captain Jellis J, Fonda's 
company, 2d Albany County Militia, and served at the 
Schoharie Forts. In 1779 he was on duty at Fort Plank 
and Stone Arabia. His widow received a pension. 

LiGHTHALL, George : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

LighthaIjL, James N. : Born in 1758 ; died April 22, 1829. 
On June 14, 1775, he enlisted under Captain Cornelius 
Van Dyck and took part in the Canadian expedition. 
In November, when his term expired, he re-enlisted at 
Montreal under Captain Barent Ten Eyck. He went to 
Quebec and remained with the army in its retreat in May, 
1776. On January 6, 1777, he enlisted in Captain John 
A. Bradt's company of State Rangers. He served but a 
short time and then enlisted for the war under Captain 
Aaron Austin, 3d New York Line. Upon the consolida- 
tion of the regiments he was attached to the company under 
Captain Cornelius T. Jansen, 1st New York Line, and in 
this company he served until his discharge on June 14, 
1783. His discharge was signed by General "Washington. 
A pensioner under the Act of March 18, 1818. 

LiGHTHALL, JoHN : Died in Glenville, August 4, 1835. In 
the spring of 1776 he enlisted at Schenectady for seven 
months under Captain Gerrit S. Veeder, re-enlisting in 
January, 1777, at Saratoga for the war under Captain 
John Copp, 1st New York Line. He remained in this 
company until July 14, 1779, when Copp resigned and 
was then transferred to the company of Captain Charles 
Parsons in the same regiment. He was discharged on 
June 8, 1783, and "honored with the badge of merit for 
seven years faithful service." A pensioner under the 
Act of March 18, 1818. 



180 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

LiGHTHALL, LANCASTER: Born May 10, 1761. On January 
22, 1777, he enlisted in Captain Jolm A. Bradt's company 
of State Rangers. His name appears on the rolls of the 
5th Company, 3d New York Line. On April 7, 1777, he 
enlisted for the war and served to the end, being promoted 
in July, 1779, to the rank of corporal. 

LiGHTHALL, NICHOLAS: Bom at German Flats, August 17, 
1750; died January 27, 1838. Buried in Vale Cemetery. 
In the spring of 1776 he enlisted at Albany for nine 
months under Captain John Hunn. He served in the 
Quartermaster's Department, transporting ammunition 
and provisions to Tieonderoga and other posts. At the 
expiration of his term he removed to German Flats and 
enlisted under Captain Frederick Frank, 4th Tryon 
County Militia. In August, 1777, he fought at the battle 
of Oriskany. He was on active duty at Fort Herkimer 
until November, 1780, when he removed to Schenectady 
and enrolled in Captain John Van Patten's company, 
2d Albany County Militia. In October, 1781, he performed 
three weeks' guard duty at Tennis Swarfs Fort and 
served with the militia in the pursuit of Major Ross and 
Walter Butler, A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 
1832. 

LiGHTHALL, WiLLiAM : Died October 5, 1822. On June 12, 
1776, he enlisted in a company of New York State 
Rangers under Captain John A. Bradt. On March 7, 
1776, he re-enlisted and was attached to Captain Giles 
Wolcott's company, Colonel Seth Warner's regiment. He 
remained in this company as sergeant until November 14, 
1778, when he was promoted to the rank of ensign and 
commissioned. Under General Stark he ''was highly dis- 
tinguished for his bravery in the battle of Bennington." 
(Sanders.) In 1779 he was promoted to the rank of lieu- 
tenant. He remained in active service until October, 1780, 
when at Fort George, N. Y., he was captured and taken 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 181 

to Canada. Here he remained a prisoner of war until 
November, 1782, when he was paroled and permitted to 
return home until exchanged. He remained on parole 
until the army was disbanded in 1783. A pensioner under 
the Act of March 18, 1818. 

Little, David: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Little, John: On June 20, 1778, he was appointed first 
lieutenant in Captain Thomas Wasson's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Little, Thomas: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia as serving under Captain Thomas 
"Wasson, 

Littlejohn, Duncan : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Ltne, Matthew: On August 16, 1776, he enlisted in Cap- 
tain John A. Bradt's company of State Rangers. From 
December 16, 1776, to January 15, 1777, he was at Fort 
Constitution. 

Lyport, David: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Lyport, Jacob : Born in Glenville in 1759. He was enrolled 
in Captain Abraham Van Eps's company, 2d Albany 
County Militia, during the whole of the war. In 1776 he 
went on an expedition to Clifton Park and Ballston in 
pursuit of Joseph Bettis. From May to September, 1777 
(when he returned home on account of sickness), he served 
with the Northern Army. From August to the latter part 
of November, 1779, he was on duty at the Upper Fort, 
Schoharie. Regarding this service one Van Patten affirms 
that ''Lyport was a faithful soldier and did duty bare- 
footed late in the fall." In the fall of 1780 he performed 
two months' service at Fort Paris until discharged in 
December. A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 



182 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

McBeen, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

McCallum, James : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

McCaety, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

McCakty, William: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

McCue, James: From March 1, 1777, to January 1, 1778, 
he served in a company of batteaumen under Captain 
Myndert R. Wemple at Fort Dayton, Fort Stanwix and 
on the Mohawk River. In 1778, he served about a fort- 
night under Captain John Van Patten when Cobleskill 
was attacked, and in 1780 was on duty when the Mohawk 
settlements were destroyed. His widow received a pension. 

McDonald, James: Born in 1737; died in 1818. He is 
buried in a private cemetery on the old McDonald farm 
(now owned by George McClain) in Princetown. In 1781 
he was a member of Captain John Crousehorn's company 
of artillery. 

McDougal, Duncan : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

McDougal, John: He enlisted under Captain Robert 
McKean, 1st New York Line, and was later transferred 
to a company under a Captain Van Rensselaer. He was 
in the retreat from Ticonderoga, at the siege of Fort Stan- 
wix, with the main army at Valley Forge, at White Plains 
and in the battle of Monmouth. From 1779 until his dis- 
charge in 1780 he served as a corporal. A pensioner under 
the Act of March 18, 1818. 

McFarlan, Andrew: Born in 1733; died July 17, 1805. 
Buried in Vale Cemetery. A merchant in Schenec- 
tady as early as 1767. He resided on the west corner 
of Church and Water Streets. On April 22, 1776, 



\. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 183 

he was granted a certificate of character in order to obtain 
a passport. On June 2, 1777, he was a member of the 
Committee of Safety, and on September 5 was elected 
chairman of the Board, being replaced on November 1, as 
it was stated that he was going abroad. On January 5, 
1778, he was again elected chairman of the Committee 
of Safety. On July 2, 1779, he was appointed one of a 
committee of four to sell salt to the people of the district. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia. 

McFarlin, John : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

McGiNNis, Robert : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

McIntosh, John : He served as a sergeant in the New York 
Militia. A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

McIntyre, "William: In 1774, he was a trader located at 
the corner of State and Ferry Streets. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia as serving 
under Captain Thomas Brower Banker. 

McKellop, Archibald: A farmer. On August 11, 1778, 
while a prisoner in the City Hall at Albany he was 
ordered removed to the fort by the Commissioners of 
Conspiracies because of sickness. On September 7 he was 
released on bail, the charges against him being but trivial. 
On January 5, 1781, it was reported to the Board by the 
Commissioners at Schenectady that he had refused to do 
military duty and that he was adjudged a dangerous per- 
son. On January 12 he appeared before the Board and 
denied the charges against him, whereupon he was released, 
having given bond for his good behavior during the 
remainder of the war. 

McKinney, Andrew : Born in Ireland in 1750 ; died Novem- 
ber 12, 1825. Buried in the churchyard of the Cobblestone 



184 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



Church in Rotterdam. He served as a private in the 
Pennsylvania Line. A pensioner under the Act of March 
18, 1818. 

McMartin, William : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

McMiCHAEL, Alexander : Born in 1758 ; died in 1818. 
Buried on the old Valk farm in the town of Princetown. 
In May, 1779, he was on duty at Schoharie as a sergeant 
under Captain John Mynderse, 2d Albany County Militia. 
In 1781 he was a member of Captain John Crousehorn's 
company of artillery. 

McMiCHAEL, Daniel : Born near Albany, December 15, 1758. 
In the spring of 1775 he entered service from the town- 
ship of Schenectady under Captain Abraham Oothout, 
2d Albany County Militia. Shortly afterwards he was 
selected by Major Wemple as his servant and remained 
in that capacity for a period of two years. In the fall 
of 1777, previous to Burgoyne's surrender, he served two 
weeks at Fort Edward, and in the spring of 1778 at Fort 
Plank. He later enrolled under Captain Jesse Van 
Slyck, was appointed orderly sergeant and so served to 
the end of the war. In the fall of 1779 he served at Fort 
Hunter and Fort Plain, and in 1780 served as a volunteer 
in a company of Rangers in pursuit of Sir John John- 
son after the destruction of the Mohawk settlements. He 
volunteered under Captain Jellis J. Fonda when Ballston 
was burned, and on his return to Schenectady was ordered 
to Fort Herkimer. In October, 1781, he marched with 
the troops under Colonel "Willett in pursuit of Major Ross 
and Butler. He served in many expeditions and once had 
charge of the ammunition and one of the redoubts at Fort 
Plank. In the fall of 1782 he went with scouts under 
Abraham Van Eps in pursuit of Joseph Bettis. A pen- 
sioner. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 185 

McMiCHAEL, James : On March 1, 1776, he signed an agree- 
ment with Philip Schuyler for service at Lake George 
and Ticonderoga. His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia as enrolled under Captain John 
Mynderse. 

McMiCHAEL, Robert: He is mentioned on the State Treas- 
urer's pay book as having served as a lieutenant. 

McNuTT, Samuel: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

McQueen, James: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Mabb, John : He enlisted early in the war under Lieutenant- 
Colonel Christopher C. Yates. In 1779 he served under 
Captain Thomas Hicks, 12th Albany County Militia, and 
in 1780 under Captain Lawrence Gross, Colonel Marinus 
Willett's Levies, to which regiment he was also attached 
during the summer of 1781. His widow received a pension. 

Mabb, Robert: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Main, William : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia as serving under Captain John 
Mynderse. 

Manning, Edward: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia, 

Manning, John : Of Princetown. His name appears on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Markle, Dirk: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Markle, Matthew: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia as serving under Captain John 
Van Patten. 



186 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Markle, William: His name appears on tlie rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia as serving under Captain John 
Van Patten. 

Marselis, Ahasueras: Baptized April 12, 1740. On Feb- 
ruary 10, 1776, he was elected captain of one of the newly 
organized militia companies although he probably did not 
serve actively as such. On March 4 he was appointed 
overseer of batteaumen for service at Lake George and 
Ticonderoga. In the fall of 1779 he commanded a detach- 
ment (probably of fatigue men) to Fort Hunter and other 
places along the Mohawk. In 1781 he was a member of 
Captain John Crousehorn's company of artillery. 

Marselis, Alexander : Born September 20, 1747. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia as 
serving under Captain John Mynderse. 

Marselis, Arent : Baptized November 26, 1732. On March 
30, 1776, he complained to the Committee of Safety that 
the poll kept on February 10 by Abraham Wemple at the 
Widow Vrooman 's for the choosing of officers was irregular. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
MiHtia. 

Marselis, Gysbert: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia and the 2d Albany County 
Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Marselis, Henry A.: Born May 25, 1753; died August 
12, 1821. On May 13, 1776, General Schuyler was re- 
quested by the Committee of Safety to send him back 
from Lake George because he had not signed the General 
Association. From April 21 to 28, 1778, he was in com- 
mand of four whites and four Indians on an expedition 
to Harpersfield for scout duty. In October he performed 
the same duty at Cobleskill. In April, 1780, he went on 
scout duty to Glens Falls and Lake George, and in June 
was in command of a detail of thirty-six whites and seven 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 187 

Indians on an expedition to Beaverdam and Harpersfield. 
In July and August he served under Captain Jesse Van 
Slyek in pursuit of Sir John Johnson. In July, 1781, he 
is spoken of as a lieutenant on garrison duty at Fort 
Hunter. In June, 1782, he was again on garrison duty 
at Fort Hunter. 

Maeselis, John Baptist: On February 10, 1776, he was 
elected first lieutenant in Captain Thomas Brower 
Banker's company, 2d Albany County Militia. He served 
in this capacity until August, when he was transferred 
as first lieutenant to a company of State Rangers under 
Captain John A. Bradt. - 

Maeselis, John J. : He enlisted at Schenectady for three 
years under Captain David Van Ness, 1st New York Line. 
He remained on duty at Schenectady until detailed to 
accompany a drove of cattle to Fort Stanwix. He was 
in the fort during the attack by St. Leger and remained 
there until his time of enlistment had expired. At the 
solicitation of his captain and other officers he was induced 
to re-enlist for the war and was given a commission as 
ensign in his company. He remained in the service until 
the end of the war. 

Marselis, John N. : Born January 27, 1760 ; died December 
15, 1833. Buried in Vale Cemetery. He lived on Ferry 
Street opposite St. George's Church. On March 1, 1776, 
he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler for service 
at Lake George and Ticonderoga. In 1777 he was 
enrolled in Captain Jesse Van Slyck's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. He served to the end of the war. 
He was with the Northern Army in the campaign against 
Burgoyne; at various times at the Upper Fort, Schoharie, 
Fort Herkimer, Fort Plank, Fort Plain and Fort Clyde; 
and in 1778 at Saratoga in a company under Lieutenant- 
Colonel Christopher Yates. In October, 1780, he marched 
to Ballston in pursuit of the enemy after the raid, and in 



188 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

1781 to Canajoharie when Major Ross descended on the 
Mohawk settlements. A pensioner under the Act of June 
7, 1832. 
Maeselis, Richard: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Martin, Charles: Buried January 30, 1818. A merchant. 
On April 22, 1776, he was granted a certificate from the 
Commitee of Safety that he might obtain a passport from 
General Schuyler. It was stated at that time that "he 
appeared a true friend to the American cause, although 
he had not signed the General Association." His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia as 
enrolled under Captain John Mynderse. 

Martin, John: On August 2, 1777, he was taken prisoner 
by a band of Seneca Indians and carried to the Seneca 
country. He escaped but was later recaptured by a party 
of Rangers in the British service and taken to Quebec by 
way of Niagara and Montreal. Here he remained a 
prisoner from December 17, 1777, until May 27 of the 
following year, when he embarked on board the ship Maria 
for Halifax, whence he was sent by a flag ship to Boston. 

Martin, Robert: Baptized December 2, 1758. On May 31, 
1775, the Committee of Safety arranged that part of the 
men of Captain Cornelius Van Dyck's company be quar- 
tered at his house while the company was being recruited 
and drilled. 

Mead, William: Died February 1, 1829. He served as a 
surgeon in the 1st New York Line from November 21, 1776, 
to October 13, 1779, when he was obliged to resign from 
the service because he had expended a greater part of his 
property and his pay had depreciated to such an extent 
that he was unable longer to adequately provide for his 
family. He was at the battle of Monmouth. He moved 
to Schenectady soon after his resignation from the service. 
A pensioner under the Act of March 18, 1818. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 189 

Meal, Carel: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Mebie, Albert: Baptized May 14, 1738; died previous to 
1799. On November, 7, 1775, he was elected a member of 
the second Committee of Safety. He served also on the 
third Committee and on the Boards taking office June 2, 
1777, and January 5, 1778. On April 1, 1777, he was 
elected fence viewer, and on August 11 was serving as 
captain of the town guard. On June 24, 1779, he was 
again elected a member of the Committee of Safety. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Mebie, Arent: Baptized in 1729. His name appears on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia as serving under 
Captain John Van Patten, 

Mebie, Cornelius: Born March 18, 1741; died May 10, 
1789. On October 20, 1775, he was commissioned first 
lieutenant in Captain John Van Patten's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. His name does not appear on 
the roster of regimental officers, June 20, 1778 (Archives, 
State of New York), although John Van Eps (Pension 
Office Records W 27862) states that Mebie was serving as 
a lieutenant under Captain Van Patten in the fall of 1779. 

Mebie, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Mebie, Juiter: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Mebie, Patrick: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Mebie, Peter: Baptized November 14, 1742; died before 
1782. In 1780 he was living at the junction of the Scho- 
harie Creek and the Mohawk River, but removed his 
family to Rotterdam to avoid the incursions of the Indians. 
He served with the troops under Colonel Marinus Willett 



190 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

against Major Ross and Walter Butler in 1781. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d. Albany County Militia, 

Mercer, Alexander : Born in 1732 ; died January 18, 1798. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia as serving under Captain Jesse Van Slyek. 

Mercker, "William: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Mils, Chris : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Mitchell, Hugh: Born in 1741; died February 21, 1784. 
On May 6, 1775, he was chosen a member of the first Com- 
mittee of Safety and on the ninth was elected clerk of the 
Board. On May 10 he was appointed a deputy for the 
election of delegates to the first Provincial Congress, and 
on June 27 appointed to attend the council with the 
Indians at German Flats. On November 7 he was elected 
clerk of the second Committee of Safety. He served also 
on the Committees taking office June 2, 1777, and January 
5, 1778. On December 18, 1775, he was ordered to hold 
in trust £73 N. Y. C. raised for the relief of the poor of 
Boston until it could be transferred to Boston, and on 
May 25, 1776, he was appointed to receive the amount due 
for sleds, etc., employed in the expedition to Johnstown 
and to pay it out where due. On May 27 he was appointed 
caretaker of the papers of the Committee. On December 
19, 1777, he was appointed to purchase a quantity of salt 
in certain states not to exceed six hundred bushels, to be 
paid for in flour or money. On April 4, 1778, he was 
appointed one of the Commissioners of Conspiracies and as 
such served until March 8, 1781. His name appears on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Moore, John: Bom in 1751; died April 7, 1821. He kept 
an inn at the comer of Liberty and Ferry Streets. In 
June, 1777, he enlisted at Schenectady in Captain Leonard 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 191 

Bleeker's company, 3d New York Line. He was after- 
wards transferred to the 1st New York, under Colonel 
Goose Van Schaick. He was in Fort Stanwix when it 
was besieged by St. Leger and was at the capture of Lord 
Cornwallis at Yorktown. He served until June, 1783, when 
he was honorably discharged by General "Washington. A 
pensioner. 

Moore, William: In the spring of 1775 he was appointed 
an ensign in Captain Thomas Wasson's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. On August 5, 1777, he informed 
the Committee against one John Gregg who had drunk the 
health of King George the Third at Bradt's Tavern. On 
February 25, 1780, he was commissioned second lieutenant 
in Captain Wasson's company, and on April 27, 1781, was 
serving as a lieutenant in the Levies under Colonel Marinus 
Willett. 

MoRREL, Thomas : A merchant. On August 10, 1777, it was 
reported to the Committee of Safety that he was harboring 
a band of Tories. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia as enrolled under Captain Thomas 
B rower Banker. 

MoYSTON, Robert: Born April 24, 1745; died August 3, 
1798. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia, and the 2d Albany County Militia, Land 
Bounty Rights. 

MuLLER, Jacob Jr. : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

MuNRO, John : He was a merchant in Schenectady for some 
time after 1760, but previous to the Revolution moved to 
Albany. On May 24, 1776, the Committee of Safety at 
Schenectady was ordered by Colonel Dayton to apprehend 
and treat him as a common enemy to the liberty of America. 
On the next day he was summoned before the Board and 
sent to Albany under guard for confinement in the Albany 



192 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

jail. This is the Major Mimro wlio led the attack on the 
settlement of Ballston in October, 1780. 

MuNUOE, Alexander: Born in 1743; died April 21, 1823. 
On August 31, 1776, he enlisted in Captain John A. 
Bradt's company of State Rangers. On March 12, 1777, 
he enlisted for three years and was assigned to the 8th 
Company, 3d New York Line. A pensioner under the 
Act of March 18, 1818. 

Murray, Alexander : He served in the Levies under Colonel 
Marinus Willett. A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 
1832. 

Murray, John : Baptized April 5, 1752. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia as serving 
under Captain Thomas Wasson and on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Murray, William : In 1775 he enlisted under Captain 
Cornelius Van Dyck, He served under General Mont- 
gomery at St. John's, Chamblee and Montreal. In the 
spring of 1777 he enlisted for the war under Capt^ 
Robert McKean, He served until June 8, 1783, when he 
was discharged. He was in the battle of Monmouth and 
was at Yorktown at the surrender of Lord Cornwallis. A 
pensioner. 

Mynderse, Harmen: Baptized July 2, 1749. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Mynderse, John : Born October 18, 1741 ; died October 29, 
1815. On May 27, 1775, he was elected first lieutenant 
in Captain Cornelius Van Dyck's company. On October 
20 he was commissioned captain of militia by the Provin- 
cial Congress, and assigned to the command of a company 
of minute men (an intermediate corps between the regu- 
lar troops and the militia). This company came to be 
known as ''The Blues" because of the color of the uni- 
forms, and its motto, painted on the colors, was "Liberty 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 193 

or Death." On January 14, 1776, he went to Albany 
with sixty minute men under his command, and from there 
went with the troops on the expedition to Johnstown. 
From September, 1777, he served with the Northern Army 
until the surrender of General Burgoyne. In 1778 he was 
attached with his company to the brigade of Colonel Fred- 
erick Visscher, On June 20, 1778, he was recommissioned 
captain, and in August was stationed with his company 
at Fort Paris. In May, 1779, he was at Schoharie, and in 
the fall commanded an expedition to Beaverdam. In the 
fall of 1780 he marched with the troops under General 
Van Eensselaer against Sir John Johnson. In March, 
1782, he commanded the 'guard at Fort Volunteer, Sche- 
nectady. 

Mynderse, John R. : Baptized December 25, 1743 ; died 
September 6, 1819. His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Mynderse, Lawrence : Born October 12, 1751 ; died August 
7, 1789. Buried in Vale Cemetery. On October 20, 1775, 
he was commissioned ensign in Captain John Mynderse's 
company, 2d Albany County Militia, On June 20, 1778, 
he was commissioned first lieutenant, but declined to serve. 

Mynderse, Reinier: Born October 6, 1710; died August 6, 
1788. A merchant. In 1781 he lived on the west corner 
of State Street and Mill Lane. On May 6, 1775, he was 
elected a member of the first Committee of Safety, and 
on August 9 was appointed chairman of the Board to fill 
the vacancy caused by the resignation of Christopher 
Yates. On November 7 he was elected chairman of the 
second Committee of Safety and served until December 
29, when he was replaced by Dirk Van Ingen. On June 
2, 1777, he was again elected chairman of the Board and 
served as such until September 5, when he was replaced 
probably because of his duties in attending the Senate and 
Assembly at Kingston. From 1777 to 1781 he served as 



194 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

a state senator under the first constitution. On November 
1, 1777, he was again appointed chairman of the Committee 
of Safety and served also as a member of the Board taking 
office January 5, 1778. On July 1, 1780, he was appointed 
one of the Commissioners of Conspiracies. 

Neally, Matthew: He served as a private and fifer under 
Captain Thomas Wasson, 2d Albany County Militia. 

Neard, Christopher : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Neiger, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Nesbit, Joseph: On October 3, 1776, he enlisted for the 
war and was assigned to the 8th Company, 1st New York 
Line. In October, 1777, he was serving as a corporal and 
in June, 1778, as a private. He received land bounty 
rights. 

Nestle, George: He served as a private under Captain 
Simeon Newell, Colonel Marinus Willett's New York Lev- 
ies. He was shot through the body (engagement and date 
not known), but not killed. 

Nixon, Joshua: Baptized November 22, 1761. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Ogden, John: Buried August 23, 1801. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Ohlen, Henry George: Born in London, September 16, 
1758; died October 1, 1837. Buried in Vale Cemetery. 
He enlisted January 14, 1777, and was assigned to the 
6th Company, 3d New York Line. He was promoted to 
the rank of sergeant on April 21, 1779. A pensioner under 
the Act of May 15, 1828. 

Oothout, Abraham: Born May 27, 1744; died in July, 
1822. On May 6, 1775, he was elected a member of the 
first Committee of Safety. He served also on the second 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 195 

Committee and the Committees taking office January 15, 
1777, June 2, 1777 and January 5, 1778. He was a deputy 
from Albany County to the first Provincial Congress. He 
served throughout the war as a captain in the 2d Albany 
County Militia, being appointed soon after January 26, 
1776. On June 27, 1775, he was appointed to attend the 
council with the Indians at German Flats, and on Feb- 
ruary 24, 1776, he was appointed with Christopher Yates 
to collect donations from the inhabitants to pay for sleds 
to transport the troops from Albany to Lake George. In 
the fall he was in command of a detail to Fort Ann, Fort 
Edward and Skenesborough. On April 24, 1777, he was 
detailed as a wagoner for duty from Albany to Lake 
George. On May 21 he was a member of a court martial 
at Albany. He served with the troops against General 
Burgoyne at Saratoga, Stillwater and Bemis Heights. On 
December 20, 1777, he was appointed with Abraham 
Fonda to purchase two hundred pounds of flour to barter 
for salt. On June 20, 1778, he was regularly commis- 
sioned captain, and in the summer commanded a detach- 
ment to Stone Arabia. On June 24, 1779, he was again 
appointed a member of the Committee of Safety, and on 
June 2 was appointed chairman of the Board, which 
office he resigned on July 8, because of the pressure of 
public business. On July 1, 1780, he was appointed one 
of the Commissioners of Conspiracies. In August he 
marched with the troops to Fort Plain after the destruc- 
tion of Canajoharie, and in the fall of 1781 was stationed 
at Fort Hunter. After the battle of Johnstown he marched 
in pursuit of the enemy. Towards the end of the war he 
was promoted to the rank of colonel in the 2d Albany 
County Militia to succeed Colonel Wemple, resigned. 

OuDERKiRK, Aeent: Baptized July 9, 1737. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

OuDERKiRK, John: In February, 1776, he enlisted at Sche- 
nectady for one year in a company of fatigue and bat- 



196 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

teaumen under Captain John Clute, but was discharged 
after ten months' duty. In 1777 he again enlisted under 
Captain Clute at Schenectady and served nine or ten 
months. In 1779 he enlisted at Schenectady as a boatman 
under Captain Peter Adair. Adair was later discharged 
from the service at Fishkill and Ouderkirk there enlisted 
under Captain John Denny as a fatigue man, boatman and 
laborer. He served in this capacity and also as a baker 
and washer for a period of ten or eleven months. A pen- 
sioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Passage, George: Born in Philadelphia May 12, 1761. He 
lived at the Norman's Kill. In the spring of 1778, he en- 
listed in Captain Abraham Oothout's company, 2d Albany 
County Militia, and shortly after was ordered to 
Beaverdam. While the company was on parade and 
Colonel Wemple was reading the orders, Passage received 
a kick from the horse of one of the field officers which 
broke two of his ribs and rendered him unfit for military 
duty until the following spring. In the fall of 1779 he was 
drafted into Captain Walter Vrooman's company of Levies 
and performed four weeks' garrison duty at Schoharie. 
In the fall of 1780 he marched with the troops to Balls- 
ton when it was attacked. In the year 1781 he served one 
month at Fort Hunter. He often served on guard duty 
at Schenectady. His claim for pension was rejected on 
the ground of insufficient service. 

Passage, George, Jr. : Born in 1763 ; died in 1840. Buried 
in the cemetery of the Reformed Church at Giffords. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia. 

Patterson, Oliver: Of Princetown. His name appears on 
the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Patterson, Thomas: During the year 1778, he served as 
a batteauman and carpenter under Captain Cornelius 
Barhydt both on the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers. In 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 197 



1779 treasury certificates were issued to Patterson cov- 
ering three periods; the first and second, August and 
October for service under Captain Thomas Wasson, and 
the third dated November 30 for service under Captain 
Jellis Fonda. His widow received a pension. 

Peek, Arent: Baptized December 25, 1743. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia as 
serving under Captain John Van Patten. 

Peek, Christopher: On March 1, 1776, he accepted a com- 
mission as ensign from the Provincial Congress through 
the Committee of Safety at Schenectady. He, however, 
later tendered his resignation to the Committee because 
of his father's displeasure at his having accepted it. This 
resignation was accepted on March 11, 1777. He later 
served as a lieutenant and quartermaster in the 2d Albany 
County Militia, and in 1778 received a commission as 
quartermaster and served as such until 1782, when he was 
appointed ensign in the New York Levies under Colonel 
Marinus Willett. This position he held until the end of 
the war. 

Peek, Cornelius : Born December 1, 1729 ; died August 22, 
1802. Buried in Vale Cemetery. On May 8, 1776, com- 
plaint was made to the Committee of Safety that he was 
working as a carpenter at Lake George without having 
signed the General Association. His name appears on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. In 1778 he was 
enrolled under Captain Jesse Van Slyck. 

Peek, Cornelius, Jr. : Born August 21, 1763. In 1778 he 
was enrolled under Captain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d Albany 
County Militia. In August, 1782, he was on garrison duty 
at the Upper Fort, Schoharie, and in September on scout 
duty at Sacandaga. 

Peek, Daniel : Baptized June 30, 1745. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia as serving 
under Captain John Van Patten. 



198 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Peek, Haemanus: Baptized January 14, 1759. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land 
Bounty Rights. 

Peek, Henry H. : Born in Schenectady, April 18, 1764. In 
the spring of 1776 he went with a detachment to the 
Heldebergh. In the fall of 1779 he volunteered under 
Captain John Mynderse, 2d Albany County Militia, for 
service at Beaverdam and on his return to Schenectady 
mounted guard under John J. Vrooman. In the spring 
of 1780 he regularly enrolled in the company of Captain 
John Mynderse, and in the fall of the same year marched 
with the troops under General Van Rensselaer. He 
served at this time one month at Fort Plain and from 
there marched to Fort Plank, where he assisted in burying 
the dead after the battle. In October, 1781, he marched 
with the troops to Johnstown and was with the detach- 
ment that pursued Walter Butler to the West Canada 
Creek. A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Peek, Jacobus C. : Baptized November 10, 1752. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land 
Bounty Rights. 

Peek, Jacobus Vedder: Baptized January 29, 1764. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Peek, James : He served as a sergeant under Captain Jesse 
Van Slyck, 2d Albany County Militia. 

Peek, James H. (or Jacobus) : Born in Schenectady, 
August 16, 1758; died September 23, 1835. Buried in 
Vale Cemetery. In the fall of 1775 he was enrolled as a 
second lieutenant in the company of Captain John Myn- 
derse, 2d Albany County Militia. In January, 1776, he 
took part in the expedition to Johnstown, and in the spring 
of the same year went to Sacandaga under General Clin- 
ton to erect fortifications. In July, 1777, he marched 
with his company to Fort Edward. He served during 
Schuyler's retreat, engaging in most of the skirmishes 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 199 



during the campaign and in the battles of Snookkill and 
Bemis Heights. On June 20, 1778, a commission as second 
lieutenant was assigned to him by Governor Clinton. 
During the years 1778 and 1779 he performed various 
garrison and scout duties, and on August 16, 1780, re- 
ceived a commission as lieutenant in the State Levies, 
being assigned to the company of Captain Benjamin 
Dubois, Colonel Lewis Dubois's regiment. He served three 
months and two weeks in the Levies, doing duty at Fort 
Herkimer (where he was in command for five weeks), 
Albany, West Point, Tappan and other posts. After this 
service he again entered the company of Captain John 
Mynderse. He often served as captain of the guard at 
Schenectady. A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Peek, Jesse : Born January 28, 1752 ; died June 3, 1810. 
Buried in Vale Cemetery. On March 1, 1776, he signed 
an agreement with Philip Schuyler for service at Lake 
George and Ticonderoga. His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia as serving under Captain 
Jellis J. Fonda and on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Peek, John: On October 5, 1775, he was recommended to 
the Provincial Congress by the Committee of Safety for 
the office of quartermaster among the field officers to be 
assigned to the newly organized Schenectady companies, 
and on October 20 a commission was issued in his name. 
On December 9 he tendered his resignation to the Board. 
On March 1, 1776, he signed an agreement with Philip 
Schuyler for service at Lake George and Ticonderoga, 
On May 7 he was elected a member of the third Committee 
of Safety. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Peek, Joseph: Born in Schenectady, November 25, 1755; 
died May 25, 1842. Buried in Vale Cemetery. In the 
spring of 1775 he enlisted under Captain John Mynderse, 



200 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADT 



2d Albany County Militia. Soon after he went to 
Ticonderoga in another company where he was employed 
in erecting works of defense and in the construction of 
boats. In January, 1776, he took part in the expedition 
to Johnstown, and later in the spring enlisted in a com- 
pany of artificers under Captain Teunis Bradt and served 
the whole season building boats for service on Lake 
Champlain. In April, 1777, he was drafted into Captain 
Jesse Van Slyck's company and subsequently made 
orderly sergeant. He marched to Jessup's Patent in pur- 
suit of Tories, and in the summer of the same year to 
Fort Edward, performing service there, at Stillwater, 
Bemis Heights and other posts until the surrender of Bur- 
goyne. In the spring of 1778 he again enlisted under 
Captain Teunis Bradt and performed seven months' ser- 
vice at Coeymans. In the winter of the same year he per- 
formed guard duty at Schenectady. During the winter 
of 1779 he was appointed a captain on the Continental 
Establishment and served to the end of the war in the 
Quartermaster's Department, having charge of the for- 
warding of supplies to the frontier posts. A pensioner 
under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Peek, Lewis D. : Bom in Rotterdam, January 6, 1764. In 
1779 he was enrolled as a private under Captain John 
Van Patten, 2d Albany County Militia. He was later 
made a corporal and served as such to the end of the war. 
His service seems to have been mostly patrol, guard and 
garrison duty, the latter at Schenectady. In 1780 he 
marched with the troops to Jessup's Patent to intercept 
Sir John Johnson after the Mohawk settlements were 
destroyed, and in October, 1781, he went with the troops 
to the "West Canada Creek in pursuit of Walter Butler. A 
pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Pendleton, Solomon: On October 20, 1775, he was com- 
missioned second lieutenant in Captain John Mynderse's 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 201 

company, 2d Albany County Militia. On February 14, 
1776, he was recommended for the office of first lieuten- 
ant in a company to be formed under Captain John A. 
Bradt. He received his commission on March 1, and on 
April 12 applied to the Committee for leave to resign, 
giving as his reason that the men were mutinous and 
dissatisfied because Gerrit S. Veeder had been appointed 
their captain without awaiting the return of Bradt. On 
April 13 he delivered his commission to the Board, but 
was later induced to ask for its return. His request was 
granted but with an admonition regarding his future 
behavior. On October 6, 1777, while enrolled as first 
lieutenant in Captain Henry Godwin's company. Colonel 
Lewis Dubois's regiment, he was taken prisoner at Fort 
Montgomery. In 1778, during his imprisonment, he 
became mentally deranged. He was exchanged on Feb- 
ruary 8, 1781, but did not return to the army. 

Peters, Harmon : Born in Schenectady and lived here dur- 
ing the war. In 1832 he was a resident of Charlton. On 
December 22, 1777, he enrolled under Captain John Myn- 
derse, 2d Albany County Militia. From January 10 to 
April 10, 1778, he performed guard duty in his regular 
turn at Schenectady. In the spring of 1779 he went on 
scout duty to Beaverdam, and in April of the same year 
he went to Fort Plain, where he served two months. In 
March, 1780, he volunteered under Captain Jesse Van 
Slyck, and served one month at Stone Arabia. In March, 
1782, he volunteered under "Walter Swits for guard duty 
at Fort Volunteer, Schenectady, and in the fall of the 
same year went on scout duty to Jessup's Patent with a 
detail of Oneida Indians in search of deserters from the 
American service. 

Peters, William: On March 4, 1776, he was appointed 
overseer of batteaumen for service at Lake George and 
Ticonderoga. His appointment was objected to by cer- 



202 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

tain persons because they considered him too young to 
serve. The objection was not sustained by the Committee 
of Safety. In 1778 he commanded a company of state 
troops engaged as batteaumen in transporting stores from 
Schenectady to Fort Stanwix. On June 29, 1781, he was 
appointed ensign in the 8th Company, 2d New York Line. 

Peterson, Chakles: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Peterson, Harmanus : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia, as serving under Captain 
Thomas Wasson. 

Philips, Thomas: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Phtn, James: Born March 12, 1742; died November 2, 
1821. Buried in Vale Cemetery. A native of County 
Kent, England. He was in business ia Schenectady as 
early as 1768. On April 24, 1776, it was stated by the 
Committee of Safety that he had resided for some time 
past in England. He was at that time in partnership with 
Alexander Ellice, who had also retired to England during 
the previous fall. The accounts of the firm were being 
collected by Eobert Ellice. 

Post, Elias : Baptized in New York, January 7, 1708. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. 

Post, John : Born January 1, 1749. On May 24, 1775, he 
was appointed with John G. Lansing keeper of three hun- 
dred and thirty-eight pounds of gunpowder purchased 
from Daniel Campbell. On January 13, 1776, he was 
appointed quartermaster of the 2d Albany County Militia, 
and on March 5 Henry Glen was instructed to apply to 
Congress for his commission. Some time in the fall of 
1776 he was appointed commissary of issues for the New 
York Line, and in this position continued to the end of 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 203 

the war, serving at Herkimer, German Flats, Yorktown, 
Princeton, Monmouth and in General Sullivan's expe- 
dition against the Indians. His widow received a pension. 

PuTMAN, Arent J. : Bom June 13, 1745 ; died August 1, 
1830. Buried in the cemetery of the Cobblestone Church, 
Rotterdam. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. In 1778 he was enrolled under 
Captain Jesse Van Slyck. 

PuTMAN, Arent L. : Baptized July 10, 1751. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia as 
serving under Captain Thomas Brower Banker. 

PuTMAN, Cornelius: Baptized April 20, 1755. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

PuTMAN, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

PuTMAN, Teunis: Baptized March 31, 1716. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land 
Bounty Rights. 

Putnam, Arent : He is said to have served two years in 
the militia and also 'as a butcher in the Commissary 
Department at Schenectady under Henry Glen. His 
daughter's claim for pension was rejected. 

QuACKENBUSH, Gerardus : Baptized March 11, 1721. On 
October 14, 1776, he was a member of Captain John A. 
Bradt's company of State Rangers. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

QuACKENBUSH, JoHN : Bom in Schenectady, August 19, 
1750; died July 28, 1839. He lived at the junction of 
Lafayette and Liberty Streets. In the spring of 1775 he 
was enrolled under Captain Thomas Brower Banker, 2d 
Albany County Militia. About November 1, 1775, he was 
appointed a lieutenant in this company and as such 
served to the end of the war. His lieutenant's commis- 



304 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

sion was not renewed by the Council of Appointment, but 
after the war he received that of a captain. He was 
spoken of as ** always evincing the utmost alacrity, zeal 
and fidelity in the cause of his country." Most of his 
service in 1776 was that of guarding boats laden with 
stores from Fort Ann to Skenesborough. He marched on 
various alarms and was often on guard duty, especially at 
Schenectady, where he frequently had command of the 
guard, A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Eamsey, George : On September 25, 1775, it was reported to 
the Committee of Safety that he had spoken very disrespect- 
fully of some of the members of the Board and that he 
was strongly suspected of being concerned in putting tar 
and feathers on several of their doors. On January 31, 
1776, he appeared before the Committee to answer charges 
that he had made some reflections against the friends of 
the American cause in general and against one William 
Murray in particular, having called him "a traitor and a 
rebel." Ramsey admitted the truth of the accusations 
but said that he "only did it to put Murray in a passion 
as he knew he was of a quick temper." On February 12 
it was decided by the Committee that he was a "high 
offender" against the American cause and he was ordered 
sent to the Albany jail to await trial. On his release Ram- 
sey returned to Schenectady and on April 27 was sum- 
moned and ordered to pay the amount expended in con- 
nection with his imprisonment (sixteen shillings) for a 
sled and one minute man to carry him to Albany. This 
amount he promised to pay. 

Reis, John : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

RiGHTER, Michael : On November 22, 1777, he was reported 
as an enemy to the American cause. On December 1 he 
was arrested by order of the Committee of Safety and 
committed to the Albany jail. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 205 

EoBisON, John : A merchant. Buried in the cemetery of the 
Presbyterian Church at Rynex Corners. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty 
Rights. 

Rosa, Elias: Born in Ulster County, March 4, 1753. He 
was living in Schenectady in July, 1775, when he enlisted 
under Captain Jellis J. Fonda, 2d Albany County Militia. 
He served during the whole war as orderly sergeant in 
this company. In the summer of 1775 he was engaged in 
building boats and erecting fortifications at Ticonderoga. 
In the early fall he enlisted with the troops for Canadian 
service, marching to St. John's, and serving at the reduc- 
tion of Chamblee, after which he returned to Fort Edward 
and remained there until the close of the year. In January, 
1776, he took part in the expedition to Johnstown. From 
the latter part of May to the end of October, 1777, he was 
with the Northern Army, serving at Fort Edward and 
Fort Ann and in the battles of Fort Miller and Snook- 
kill. In 1779 he performed garrison duty at Fort Plank 
and Stone Arabia, and in the fall of 1780 was on duty 
when Caughnawaga was destroyed. In October, 1781, he 
was at Fort Herkimer. 

Rosa, Isaac: On May 25, 1776, he promised a contribution 
for the poor of Boston. His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Rose, John : In 1775 he enlisted for six months under Cap- 
tain Cornelius Van Dyck. He was at the siege of St. 
John 's. He volunteered under Ethan Allen and was taken 
prisoner on the Island of Montreal. He jumped overboard 
from the Gaspee, swam ashore and again joined the army 
under Montgomery. He was in the siege and at the storm- 
ing of Quebec, where he was wounded in the arm. He 
subsequently enlisted under Captain Joseph McCracken, 
1st New York Line, and remained with this company until 
the advance of Burgoyne, when he enlisted at Saratoga 



206 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



for the war under Captain John Copp, 1st New York Line. 
He served during the campaign against Burgoyne, and 
in 1778 took part in the battle of Monmouth, where he 
was wounded in the throat. In 1779 he marched with the 
expedition under General Sullivan against the Indians. 
In 1780 or 1781 he was transferred to Captain Aaron Aus- 
tin's company, 3d New York Line. He was in the battle 
of Yorktown and there had his leg broken by a bombshell. 
He remained in the army until it was disbanded and re- 
ceived an honorable discharge at Snake Hill, Orange 
County, N. Y., in 1783. He received a sergeant's commis- 
sion in 1778, and several times acted as a recruiting ser- 
geant. 

RosEBOOM, John: Bom in Albany, October 23, 1739; died 
in Canajoharie, April 4, 1805. He moved from Schenec- 
tady some time previous to 1790. He is buried in the 
Prospect Hill cemetery, Canajoharie. A merchant. ,He 
lived on the northeast comer of Ferry and Union Streets. 
On May 6, 1775, he was elected a member of the first 
Committee of Safety. On May 24 he was appointed one 
of a committee to go to Guy Park to deliver an answer 
to a speech made by the Mohawk Indians, and on June 23 
he was appointed to accompany the Rev. Samuel Kirk- 
land and five Oneida Indians to Albany. In August, 1776, 
he was appointed first lieutenant in Captain Abraham 
Oothout's company, 2d Albany County Militia, but was 
not so commissioned until June 20, 1778. He served in the 
capacity of lieutenant until the end of the war. On January 
15, 1777, he was a member of the Committee of Safety 
and on July 2, 1779, he was appointed one of a committee 
of four to sell salt to the people of the district. On July 
26 he was again elected a member of the Committee of 
Safety. In 1780 he was on garrison duty at the Upper 
Fort, Schoharie. 

Rykman, Cornelius: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia as serving under Captain Jesse 



IN DIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 207 

Van Slyck. In 1781 he was a member of Captain John 
Crousehorn's company of artillery, 

Rykman, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Ryley, Jacobus: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Ryley, James Van Slyck: Born October 3, 1761; died 
January 8, 1848. In 1778 and 1779 he served under Lieu- 
tenant James H. Peek at Stone Arabia and elsewhere. 

Ryley, John : Born April 3, 1757 ; died April 24, 1842. He 
served as a private under Captain John Clute in the Quar- 
termaster 's Department. 

Ryley, Philip : Born in New York, April 29, 1719, 0. S. He 
served as a private and sergeant under Captain John Myn- 
derse, 2d Albany County Militia. 

Ryley, William : Bom November 16, 1760 ; died March 19, 
1848. He served under Captain Jacob Vrooman in the 
Quartermaster 's Department. 

Rynex, Andrew: He served as a sergeant under Captain 
Thomas Wasson, 2d Albany County Militia, and in the 
same capacity in the Levies under Colonel John Harper. 
On October 23, 1780, he was taken prisoner by the forces 
under Sir John Johnson and Joseph Brant and by them 
taken to Canada. He was exchanged the next year and 
was back in Schenectady on July 23, 1781, On December 
26, 1780, at a meeting of St. George's Lodge of which he 
was a member it was resolved "that fifty shilling, hard 
money, out of the funds of the lodge be delivered for the 
use of Brother Andrew Rynex 's family, he being taken 
captive. ' ' 

Rynex, John: He served as a private and drummer under 
Captain Thomas Wasson, 2d Albany County Militia. His 
name appears also on the roUs of the 2d Albany County 
Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 



208 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Rynex, Richard: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Sacia, David: He was enrolled under Captain Abraham 
Oothout, 2d Albany County Militia. At various times he 
served as *'an express rider" and on one occasion was 
taken prisoner by the Indians and carried to their camp. 
He made his escape on the following night and returned 
to the service. He was often on duty drawing wood to 
and from various posts. Once while returning from Lake 
George the Indians drove him from his regular crossing, 
and he had to swim the river with his horses and wagon. 
He was at the Upper Fort, Schoharie, when Timothy 
Murphy fired on the flag of truce sent forward by Sir 
John Johnson, in the engagement at Cobleskill and in 
pursuit of the enemy after the raid on Ballston. He per- 
formed various garrison and guard duties, being stationed 
from August to October, 1781, at Claas Viele's Rifts. His 
widow received a pension. 

St. John, Thaddeus : On May 25, 1776, he promised a con- 
tribution for the poor of Boston. His name appears on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia and the 2d New 
York Line. 

Sanders, John: Born in Albany, August 10, 1714; died 
September 13, 1782. He removed to Scotia immediately 
after his marriage to Deborah Glen on December 6, 1739. 
He lived in the Glen-Sanders house which Deborah in- 
herited on the death of her father in 1762. In 1765, by 
the purchase of the other outstanding interests, John 
Sanders and his wife became owners of the entire Glen 
estate. On May 6, 1775, he was elected a member of the 
first Committee of Safety but immediately refused to 
serve. On July 30, 1777, he was ordered arrested and to 
appear before the State Committee for refusing to receive 
Continental currency in payment of a debt. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. In 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 209 

the fall of 1780 he was in command of the guard at Sche- 
nectady. 

Sawyer, James: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

ScHERMERHORN, Aaron : From August to October, 1781, an 
Aaron Schermerhorn was on duty at Claas Viele's Fort 
under Sergeant "William Teller of Captain Abraham 
Oothout's company, 2d Albany County Militia. 

Schermerhorn, Abraham : Baptized October 21, 1721 ; died 
in 1811. He lived near Haverly's in Glenville and died 
there. During the war he suffered much from the Indians 
and Tories, and was compelled to flee repeatedly from his 
home to Schenectady for safety. On one occasion a party 
led by Walter Butler came to Schermerhorn 's house and 
after plundering it carried away two boys, one a German 
and the other a negro. The former of the boys was scalped 
but later recovered. Schermerhorn 's name appears on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Schermerhorn, Andrew (Andreas) : Born July 11, 1762; 
died in Rotterdam about 1815. His name appears on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Schermerhorn, Barnhardus Freeman: Bom October 14, 
1739 ; died July 14, 1799. On June 20, 1778, he was com- 
missioned ensign in Captain Thomas Brower Banker's com- 
pany, 2d Albany County Militia. In September or Octo- 
ber, 1779, he was on duty at Fort Plank and Stone Arabia. 

Schermerhorn, Bartholomew: Baptized in Schenectady, 
August 24, 1757. He lived in Rotterdam and died July 
16, 1845. In the fall of 1775 he was enrolled under Cap- 
tain Abraham Oothout, 2d Albany County Militia. In the 
spring of 1776 he went to Fort Dayton, and in the fall 
of the same year with the regiment to Fort Edward, thence 
under Captain Jesse Van Slyck to Fort Ann and Skenes- 
borough as a guard for boats plying between these posts. 



210 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

He then returned to Fort Edward. In the spring of 1777, 
under Captain Jesse Van Slyck, he went with the troops 
of Colonel Warner to Jessup 's Patent in pursuit of Tories. 
He was with the main army at Bemis Heights. In the 
spring of 1778 he marched to Schoharie and Cobleskill, 
where he assisted in burying the dead slain by the enemy. 
In February, 1779, he served in a company of fatigue 
men under Captain Joseph Peek. On July 23, 1780, he 
was sent a prisoner to Albany, accused of being appre- 
hended on his way to the enemy or of supplying them with 
provisions; he was, however, on August 10 released on 
bail. In October, under Major Swits, he marched to Balls- 
ton when it was attacked. He performed considerable gar- 
rison and guard duty, especially at Fort Plain, Fort Clyde 
and at Claas Viele's Rifts. A pensioner under the Act 
of June 7, 1832. 

ScHERMERHORN, Gerrit : Bom in the Schenectady Town- 
ship, October 22, 1763 ; died in Rotterdam, March 24, 1848. 
In the fall of 1779 he enrolled under Captain Abraham 
Oothout, 2d Albany County Militia, and served at Fort 
Hunter, Fort Plank, Stone Arabia and at the Middle Fort, 
Schoharie. In the spring of 1780 he marched to Caughna- 
waga when it was destroyed, and in October to Ballston 
after the raid. During that year he also performed six 
months' guard duty at Claas Viele's Rifts. In October, 
1781, he went with the troops under Colonel "Willett in 
pursuit of Major Ross and Butler. A pensioner under the 
Act of June 7, 1832. 

Schermerhorn, Henry J. : His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Schermerhorn, Jacob: Born November 21, 1729; died 
April 18, 1814. He lived about six miles south of Sche- 
nectady, near the Norman's Kill, and is buried in Homer 
or East Homer, N. Y. On October 5, 1775, he was recom- 
mended to the Provincial Congress by the Committee of 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 211 

Safety for the office of lieutenant-colonel in the 2d Albany- 
County Militia. On October 20 a commission was issued 
in his name. In November he was elected a captain of 
militia but declined to serve, and on January 23, 1776, he 
also refused to accept the commission of lieutenant-colonel. 
On July 28, 1778, he was appointed captain of a company 
of Exempts formed in Schenectady, and as such served 
during the years 1779 and 1780. On June 29, 1780, he is 
mentioned in the records of the Commissioners of Conspira- 
cies as "Major." 

ScHERMERHORN, Jacob : His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. This might be Jacob, son 
of Arent, baptized December 20, 1752; or Jacob, son of 
"William, baptized December 1, 1745. 

ScHERMERHORN, Jacob J. : Baptized January 20, 1751. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

ScHERMERHORN, Jacobus : Baptized January 31, 1720; died 
July 28, 1782. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

ScHERMERHORN, JoHN J. : Bom in Schcucctady, January 
23, 1764. In August, 1777, being too young to enroll in 
the militia, he volunteered and served under Major Swits 
on a scout to the Heldebergh. In 1778 he performed guard 
duty at Claas Viele's Rifts, and in 1779, as a substitute 
for his father, Jacob Schermerhorn, performed garrison 
duty at Stone Arabia. In 1780 he performed garrison duty 
on various occasions at the Schoharie Forts, Fort Plank 
and Fort Herkimer, and took part in several scouting 
expeditions. He was at Ballston when the town was 
attacked. 

ScHERMERHORN, Lawrence : Bom in Schenectady, Feb- 
ruary 9, 1749; died in Rotterdam, March 26, 1837. In 
1775 he was enrolled under Captain Jellis J. Fonda, 2d 
Albany County Militia. In January, 1776, he took part 



212 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

in the expedition to Johnstown and in the spring of the 
same year served at Sacandaga erecting fortifications. In 
1777 he served in the campaign against Burgoyne at Fort 
Edward, Stillwater and other posts. From May to June, 
1778, he was on duty when Cobleskill was destroyed, and 
in the fall of the same year he enlisted in Captain Martin 
Mynderse's company of artificers and served in it two 
years. Just previous to this enlistment he served on draft 
with a detail bringing military stores from Ticonderoga 
to Albany. In the fall of 1781 he went with the troops 
under Colonel Willett in pursuit of Major Ross and But- 
ler. A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

ScHERMERHORN, Maus : Bom March 9, 1753; died January 
26, 1830. Buried in Vale Cemetery. His name appears on 
the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty 
Rights. He received a land bounty in 1829. 

SCHERMERHORN, NICHOLAS W. : Baptized in Schenectady, 
September 21, 1760. He served as a sergeant under Cap- 
tain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d Albany County Militia. 

ScHERMERHORN, RiCHARD : Bom March 7, 1755. A laborer. 
He was enrolled under Captain Jellis J. Fonda, 2d Albany 
County Militia. About January 1, 1780, he enlisted as 
a batteauman under Captain Joseph Peek in the Quarter- 
master's Department and served for one year. On July 
23 he was ordered confined at Albany by the Commis- 
sioners of Conspiracies at Schenectady for being connected 
■with a party that intended to join the enemy. On August 
9, having answered "in a candid and open manner" the 
questions put to him under examination by the Board at 
Albany, he was released on bail. His widow received a 
pension. 

ScHERMERHORN, Ryer : His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia as enrolled under Captain 
John Van Patten. Through his marriage with the widow 
of Gerrit Veeder the property around "Veeder's Mills" 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 213 

later became known as the Schermerhorn "Mill farm." 
During the Revolution Ryer Schermerhorn built the stone 
house opposite the mill to be used as a fort in case of 
necessity. There was also a log house near the mill that 
was used as a place of refuge. 

Schermerhorn, Simon : Born January 3, 1723 ; died May 
6, 1808. Buried in Vale Cemetery. He resided at the 
' ' Mills, ' ' located at the east end of State Street. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Schermerhorn, "William: Baptized November 10, 1722. 
On May 10, 1776, the Committee of Safety at Schenectady 
informed General Schuyler that he had gone to Lake 
George without the permission of the Board and that he 
had repeatedly refused to sign the General Association. 
On January 15, 1777, he was a member of the Committee 
of Safety. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Schuyler, Reuben: He came to Schenectady in 1779 and 
lived here until 1781. He was enrolled under Captain 
Jellis J. Fonda, 2d Albany County Militia, and performed 
duty during the years of 1779 and 1780, "on all occasions 
when called into service either for repelling inroads on 
the frontier or mounting guard to defend the compact part 
of the Town of Schenectady. ' ' 

Shannon, Alexander : His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Shannon, George : Baptized March 17, 1751 ; died January 
8, 1829. A farmer. On March 13, 1776, he enlisted under 
Captain Gerrit S. Veeder, in Colonel Cornelius D. Wyn- 
koop's regiment, and served until February, 1777, when 
he was discharged. On July 23, 1780, he was sent to 
Albany under arrest as being connected with a plot to join 
the enemy or of supplying them with provisions. He was 
on August 11 released on bail. A pensioner under the 
Act of March 18, 1818. 



214 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Shannon, John: Died in April, 1821. In the fall of 1775 
he was enrolled under Captain Abraham Oothout, 2d 
Albany Comity Militia. In the fall of 1776 he went to 
Jessup's Patent with the troops under Colonel Warner, 
and in the summer of the same year he marched to Fort 
Edward. He served with the Northern Army during 
Schuyler's retreat and was at the battle of Bemis Heights. 
From May to June, 1778, he was on duty when Cobleskill 
was attacked ; during the latter part of the summer he was 
at the Middle Fort, Schoharie, and in November at Switzer- 
berg near Caughnawaga. In the fall of 1779 he was on 
duty at Fort Paris and Fort Plain, serving during this 
year both as a corporal and as a sergeant. In 1781 he 
again served as a corporal. His widow received a pension. 

Shannon, Robert : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. On July 10, 1780, a Robert Shan- 
non enlisted for the war and was assigned to the 8th Com- 
pany, 4th New York Line. He deserted on October 23, was 
taken on November 20 and mustered to January, 1782. 

Shannon, Thomas : Baptized December 20, 1752. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. On 
October 28, 1776, a Thomas Shannon enlisted for the war 
and was assigned to the 4th Company, 1st New York Line. 

Shannon, William: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Shearer (alias Sherwood), James: Died December 31, 
1818. He served as a private in the New York Line. A 
pensioner under the Act of March 18, 1818. 

Shelling, Alexander : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Shelly, Samuel: He was enrolled under Captain Thomas 
Brower Banker, 2d Albany County Militia. In January, 
1776, he took part in the expedition to Johnstown, on 
which occasion he and three others constituted the party 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 215 

entrusted with the flag of truce. On March 1, 1776, he 
signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler for service at 
Lake George and Ticonderoga, and on September 23, en- 
listed for one year in Captain John A, Bradt's company 
of State Rangers. He held the rank of sergeant. On 
December 4 he was discharged as unfit for duty, but later 
he returned and served for nearly a year, when he was 
again taken sick and placed in the hospital at Albany. 
After three weeks he was removed to Schenectady. In 
consequence of his continued illness he was not required 
to join the army, "but he felt such anxiety for the suc- 
cess of the American cause that he procured one Donelly 
as a substitute and said Donelly served to near the end of 
the war when he died." In spite of his ailments Shelly 
again entered the service, for in the summer of 1777 he 
was on duty six weeks with the Northern Army, and in 

1778 at Fort Plain and the Lower Fort, Schoharie. In 

1779 he was at Fort Paris, and in 1780, under Abraham 
Van Eps, he marched to Ballston. He later moved to 
Saybrook, Connecticut. His widow received a pension. 

Shields, Daniel: A resident of Schenectady before and 
after the Revolution. In 1780 he enlisted under Lieuten- 
ant Philip Conine, 3d New York Line, and was later trans- 
ferred to the company of Captain George Sytez, 1st New 
York Line. In this company he served to the end of the 
war. He was at Yorktown. He received five hundred 
acres of land as a bounty. A pensioner. 

SiMONDS, Reuben: Born in 1736; died May 5, 1810. On 
April 19, 1777, he was granted a tavern license by the 
Committee of Safety. His inn was on the west side of 
Church Street and came to be a popular place for the 
holding of public meetings. His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia and the 2d Albany County 
Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 



216 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



Smilie, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Smith, Adam: Baptized January 28, 1750. His name ap- 
pears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Smith, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Smith, Robert: He was enrolled under Captain Jellis J. 
Fonda, 2d Albany County Militia. In the summer of 1780 
he was attached to Colonel Malcolm Graham's regiment, 
having been drafted from the Schenectady militia. He 
marched to West Point and while there every fifteenth man 
was selected to join the Regular Army. He was among 
those selected. He is said to have served at least six months 
in the Levies under Colonel Marinus Willett. His widow's 
claim for a pension was rejected. 

Snell, Major: Born April 26, 1720; died September 24, 
1818. He came from Yorkshire, England. A merchant. 
On September 11, 1776, he was ordered confined to the 
Albany jail by the Schenectady Committee of Safety. On 
the eighteenth he refused to sign the Association or to swear 
allegiance and was therefore ordered recommitted. In May, 
1777, he was recommended to the field officers as "a dan- 
gerous person," and on the twenty-second voluntarily took 
an oath that he would take up arms in defense of the coun- 
try in case of any invasion. 

Snow, Ephraim: He was appointed an ensign under Cap- 
tain Gerrit S. Veeder, Colonel Cornelius D. Wynkoop's 
regiment. On April 12, 1776, he delivered his commission 
to the Committee of Safety, giving as his reason for resign- 
ing that the men were mutinous and dissatisfied with the 
appointment of Veeder as captain. He was later induced 
to ask for the return of his commission and his request 
was granted by the Board, but with a word of caution 
regarding his future behavior. On November 21, 1776, 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 217 

he was serving as a second lieutenant in the 1st New York 
Line. He was promoted to the rank of first lieutenant on 
March 26, 1779, and served in this capacity until June, 
1783. 

Speck, Abraham : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Speck, Tobias: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Staley, George: Born at Truxberry, N. J., July 6, 1753; 
died June 7, 1832. In the spring of 1775 he lived in 
Princetown and was enrolled under Captain Thomas 
"Wasson, 2d Albany County Militia. He was not called 
upon until 1776, after which time he served to the end 
of the war. In 1776 after the defeat of the American 
forces on Lake Champlain he served with a detachment 
of Colonel Wemple's regiment under General Ten Broeck 
in guarding ammunition conveyed from Albany to Skenes- 
borough. In the summer of 1777 he served with the 
Northern Army from the evacuation of Ticonderoga to 
the surrender of Burgoyne, with the exception of about 
three weeks, when he hired a substitute. He was in the 
encounter at Snookkill, but not in the battle of Bemis 
Heights, being on sentry duty and among the troops not 
called upon. In 1778 he served under Colonel Wemple 
in bringing ammunition and cannon from Ticonderoga to 
Albany. He performed duties at various times at Scho- 
harie, Cobleskill, Fort Paris, Fort Plain, Fort Plank, Balls- 
ton, and in the expeditions to Cherry Valley, Warren's 
Bush and Caughnawaga. A pensioner under the Act of 
June 7, 1832. 

Stalet, Jacob: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Staley, Matthias: Born in New Jersey in 1737. In 1776 
he enlisted at Schenectady, where he then lived, under 



218 EI8T0RY OF SCHENECTADY 

Myndert Wemple and during the year served six months. 
During the year 1777 he served three months under Cap- 
tain Thomas Wasson, 2d Albany County Militia, being 
present at the surrender of General Burgoyne. In 1778 
he enlisted for six months in the batteau service on the 
North River. In 1779 he served at Stone Arabia on draft. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia, Land Bounty Rights. He lived in Schenectady 
and Duanesburgh after the Revolution and in 1804 moved 
to Blenheim, Schoharie County. A pensioner. 

Stanley, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Steeley, Henry: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Steers, John: Baptized October 15, 1732; died February 
12, 1811. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia and the 2d Albany County Militia, Land 
Bounty Rights. In 1778 he was enrolled under Captain 
Jesse Van Slyck. 

Steers, Peter: Baptized January 7, 1739. In 1778 he was 
enrolled under Captain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d Albany County 
Militia. 

Stevens, John: Baptized March 31, 1745. On March 1, 

1776, he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler for 
service at Lake George and Ticonderoga. On April 1, 

1777, he was elected fire master at Schenectady, and on 
September 11 was sent to give information to the Albany 
Committee regarding the condition of the army at Sara- 
toga. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Stevens, Nicholas: Born November 14, 1734; died Sep- 
tember 19, 1788. On April 12, 1776, it was reported to 
the Schenectady Committee that he had gone up the North 
River to trade without a certificate from the Board. On 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 219 



the same day General Schuyler was informed regarding 
him, as it was suspected that he had or might obtain a 
pass through a misrepresentation. On August 8, 1778, he 
was summoned before the Commissioners of Conspiracies 
to render satisfaction touching his conduct during the 
war, in accordance with the Act regarding neutral and 
equivocal characters. He was tendered the Oath of Alle- 
^ance and granted time to consider its acceptance. On 
August 15 he refused to take the Oath and was cited to 
appear on September 5, ready for removal to the enemy's 
lines. On August 28 he was authorized to go to Canada, 
on his promise of thereafter maintaining a strict neutral- 
ity. On September 3 his name was transmitted to General 
Clinton that he might, if he thought proper, detain him 
for the purpose of an exchange. On September 8 he was 
ordered removed. 

Stevens, William : Baptized September 10, 1732. On Feb- 
ruary 10, 1776, he was elected a second lieutenant in one 
of the newly organized Schenectady militia companies. On 
April 1, 1777, he was elected overseer of highways. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. 

Stewart, Daniel : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Stewart, David: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Stuart, George: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia and the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. 

Stuaet, James: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Stuart, John: In October, 1778, he was serving as a ser- 
geant in the 2d Albany County Militia in command of a 
detail to Cobleskill. In 1781 he was a member of Captain 



220 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

John Crousehorn 's company of artillery, and in July, 1782, 
was on scout duty at Harpersfield. 

Stuart, John : "At the commencement of the unhappy con- 
test betwixt Great Britain and her colonies, I acquainted 
the Society [for the Propagation of the Gospel] of the 
firm reliance I had on the fidelity and loyalty of my con- 
gregation, which has justified my opinion; for the faith- 
ful Mohawks, rather than swerve from their allegiance, 
chose rather to abandon their dwellings and property ; and 
accordingly went in a body to General Burgoyne, and 
afterwards were obliged to take shelter in Canada. While 
they remained at Fort Hunter I continued to officiate as 
usual, performing the public service entire, even after the 
Declaration of Independence, notwithstanding by so 
doing I incurred the penalty of high treason by the new 
laws. As soon as my protectors were fled I was made a 
prisoner, and ordered to depart the province with my 
family, within the space of four days or be put into close 
confinement, and this only upon suspicion that I was a 
loyal subject of the King of Great Britain. Upon this I 
was admitted to 'paroles' and confined to the limits of the 
town of Schenectady [June, 1778], in which situation I 
have remained for upwards of three years. My house has 
been frequently broken open by mobs, my property plun- 
dered, and, indeed, every kind of indignity offered to my 
person by the lowest of the populace. At length my farm, 
and the produce of it, was formally taken from me in 
May last, as forfeited to the State ; and, as the last re- 
source, I proposed to open a Latin school for the sup- 
port of my family. But this priviledge was denied, on 
pretence that, as a prisoner of war, I was not entitled to 
exercise any lucrative occupation in the State. I then 
applied [March 30, 1781] for permission to remove to 
Canada, which, after much difficulty and expence, I ob- 
tained upon the following conditions: — to give bail in the 
sum of £400, to send a rebel colonel in my room, or else 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 221 

return to Albany, and surrender myself a prisoner when- 
ever required. In consequence I set out on my journey 
from Schenectady on the 19th of September last, with my 
wife and three small children; and, after suffering much 
fatigue and difficulty, we arrived safe at St. John's in 
Canada. ... I cannot omit to mention that my church 
was plundered by the rebels, and the pulpit-cloth taken 
away from the pulpit; it was afterwards employed as a 
tavern, and a barrel of rum placed in the reading-desk. 
The succeeding year it was used for a stable, and now 
serves as a fort." Letter of John Stuart, n.d. 

Sullivan, Charles: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. His widow's application for 
pension gives no facts regarding his service and her claim 
was rejected. 

Sullivan, Jacob : Died before February 25, 1780. On June 
20, 1778, he was commissioned ensign in Captain Thomas 
Wasson's company, 2d Albany County Militia. 

SwAET, Jacobus: Baptized October 19, 1740. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Swart, James: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Swart, Nicholas: Died March 1, 1825. He lived in Glen- 
ville, five miles above Schenectady, near the Fourth Flat. 
He served as a sergeant under Captain John Van Patten, 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Swart, Teunis: Lived in Glenville near the Fourth Flat 
about five miles from Schenectady on the north side of the 
river. His house which stood on the river bank, was of 
brick, and during the Revolution it was stockaded and 
used as a fort, having as an armament a small field piece. 
The house was removed prior to 1873. Swart served as a 
lieutenant in the company of Captain John Van Patten, 
2d Albany County Militia, his commission being dated 



222 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

June 20, 1778. He also served eight months as a lieu- 
tenant in the Levies. He was spoken of as having been a 
brave, active, vigilant and much beloved officer, ready on 
all occasions to turn out with his men. He served in all 
the principal expeditions up the Mohawk from 1778 to 
the end of the war. When the troops under Colonel Wil- 
lett went in pursuit of "Walter Butler he commanded the 
advance guard and was in the battle when Butler was 
killed. The claim for pension made by his two sons was 
rejected on the ground that Swart had died prior to the 
Act of 1832. 

Sweet, Caleb: Born in Schenectady and practiced medi- 
cine here after the war. He died in 1823. On November 
21, 1776, he was serving as surgeon's mate in the 1st New 
York Line. From October 13, 1779, until the close of the 
war he served as a surgeon in the same regiment. 

SwiTS, Abraham: Born October 31, 1730; died August 17, 
1814. On October 5, 1775, he was recommended to the 
Provincial Congress by the Committee of Safety for the 
office of first major among the field officers to be assigned 
to the Schenectady militia. On October 20 a commission 
was issued in his name. On July 9, 1777, he was under 
orders to march with the militia to Fort Edward, but on 
August 10 was ordered detained in town with his troops 
by the Committee because of a Tory plot. On August 11, 
assisted by a detachment of Continental troops, he arrested 
seventeen Tories. From April 7 to 14, 1778, he com- 
manded a detachment of one hundred and twenty-five 
whites and a few Indians to Beaverdam to apprehend 
Tories. On June 20 he was reappointed major. In the fall 
of 1780 he served at Fort Hunter, and in October marched 
to Ballston after the raid. In November, he performed gar- 
rison duty at Fort Paris, and in August, 1781, a like ser- 
vice at the Upper Fort, Schoharie. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 223 

SwiTS, Hendrick: Baptized in October, 1762; died Sep- 
tember 18, 1825. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia as serving under Captain John 
Mynderse. 

SwiTs, Isaac: Born in 1721; died in 1790. His name ap- 
pears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia and the 
2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

SwiTS, Jacob: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

SwiTS, Jacob A. : Bom November 3, 1762 ; died November 
21, 1835. He served as a private under Captain John 
Mynderse and as a corporal under Captain Jellis J. Fonda, 
2d Albany County Militia. 

SwiTS, Walter: Born in 1754; died October 31, 1823. 
Buried in Vale Cemetery. On May 1, 1776, he made appli- 
cation to the Committee of Safety to be dismissed from 
Captain Gerrit S. Veeder's company on a plea that he had 
not been fairly enlisted. On the testimony of Lieutenant 
Bates that the enlistment was regular the Committee, how- 
ever, refused to interfere. On May 6 he complained to 
the Committee that the officers of the company had refused 
to "take a sufficient man in his place." In June, 1776, 
he was serving as a lieutenant in Captain John A. Bradt's 
company of State Rangers. About February 15, 1777, he 
was enlisted as a lieutenant in Captain Giles Wolcott's 
company. Colonel Seth Warner's regiment. He remained 
in this company until September, 1780, when he resigned 
and returned to Schenectady. In March, 1782, he com- 
manded a company of forty-six men raised to keep guard 
at Forts Volunteer and Squash, Schenectady. His widow 
received a pension. 

Swords, Thomas: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia as serving under Captain Thomas 
Brower Banker. 



224 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Taws, David: Born in Scotland, December, 1748. He was 
living at Princetown when, on July 1, 1776, he enlisted 
for six months in the company of Captain Henry Marse- 
lis, 1st New York Line. He served until December, per- 
forming duty at Skenesborough, Fort George and Fort 
Ann. In 1777 he was enrolled under Captain John Myn- 
derse, 2d Albany County Militia, and later served under 
Captain Thomas Wasson. In the faU he was at Fort Miller 
and Fort Ann. In 1780 he was on duty when the Mohawk 
settlements were destroyed. He served to the end of the 
war. A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Taylor, Solomon : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia as serving under Captain John 
Mynderse. 

Taylor, Walter: In 1777 he was on duty with Colonel 
Wemple's regiment at Bemis Heights, and in the summer 
of 1778 he performed six weeks' garrison duty at the 
Middle Fort, Schoharie. In the fall of the same year he 
performed six weeks' garrison duty at the Lower Fort. 
On April 27, 1782, he enlisted in the Levies, "for Cornelius 
Van Santvoord and class," under the Act of March 23, 
1782. His widow received a pension. 

Teller, Jacobus: Baptized March 17, 1738; killed by the 
Indians at Detroit, September 27, 1784. In 1764 he was 
an Indian trader in company with John and Henry Glen. 
From his father he inherited part of the Teller lot on the 
east corner of Washington Avenue and Union Street. On 
May 26, 1775, he was appointed a member of the first 
Committee of Safety in place of Tobias Ten Eyck, who 
had refused to serve. He served on the second Committee 
of Safety and on the Boards taking office June 2, 1777, 
and January 5, 1778. On January 14, 1776, he was ap- 
pointed, with Harmanus Wendel, to confer with the magis- 
trates with a view of having the watch doubled as on 
account of the number of strangers in town the Board 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 225 

feared "some roil might happen." On June 2, 1777, he 
was elected assessor, and on June 7 appointed one of a 
committee to confer with the inhabitants regarding the 
election of governor. On June 24, 1779, he was again 
elected a member of the Committee of Safety. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Teller, John, Jr. : Bom May 18, 1765 ; died March 29, 
1790. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Teller, "William: Baptized June 14, 1740. He served as 
a sergeant in Captain Abraham Oothout's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. From August to October, 1781, 
he was in command at Claas Viele's Fort. 

Ten Eyck, Henry: Born July 27, 1755. He served as a 
captain in a Connecticut regiment. He took part in many 
battles and was distinguished for gallant service. On 
July 15, 1779, he fought in the advance column at the 
storming of Stony Point under General Wayne and was 
wounded in the arm by a bayonet thrust. "He became 
very deaf [Judge Sanders quotes this from the veteran's 
own lips], owing to the fact that while crawling through 
a cannon port-hole in the assault the piece was simulta- 
neously fired over his body. ' ' A pensioner. 

Ten Eyck, Jacob T. : Baptized February 15, 1761. A mer- 
chant. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia and the 2d Albany County Militia, Land 
Bounty Rights. 

Ten Eyck, Myndert : Born February 9, 1753 ; died October 
4, 1805. A merchant. On July 11, 1776, he was elected 
a member of the Committee of Safety. On January 15, 
1777, he was again elected a member of the Board. On 
May 8 he was appointed to purchase and, deliver certain 
boards to the barkmaster at Fishkill. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 



226 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Ten Eyck, Tobias: Born August 15, 1717; died February 
9, 1785. He moved to Schenectady about 1750. A mer- 
chant. He lived on the northeast corner of Governor's 
Lane and Front Street. On May 6, 1775, he was chosen 
a member of the first Committee of Safety but refused to 
serve. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Terwilliger, Isaac: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Terwilliger, Jacobus: His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Terwilliger, Solomon: Baptized March 26, 1749. On 
February 28, 1776, he refused to accept a recruiting war- 
rant with rank of ensign from the Provincial Congress. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia as serving under Captain John Van Patten. 

Thompson, John: Bom in Schenectady, June 21, 1755. 
On March 15, 1776, he enlisted in the Quartermaster's 
Department. He served nine months at Albany, Coey- 
mans, Dobbs Ferry, Tarrytown, Dover and other places, 
performing guard as well as fatigue duty. He served also 
at Troy in preparing posts for stockades and at Saratoga 
erecting fortifications. A pensioner. 

Thomson, Peter: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Thorn, Samuel: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Thornton, James: In 1775 he was enrolled under Captain 
Thomas Wasson, 2d Albany County Militia. In January, 
1776, he took part in the expedition to Johnstown. In 
1777 he performed three weeks' service at Fort George 
and Fort Edward, after which he was ordered to Oriskany. 
Dorcas Wright, his daughter, stated that her father was 
in David McMaster's company, 3d Tryon County Militia, 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 227 

and was at the battle of Oriskany. She remembered her 
father taking a chest containing the papers relating to 
the farm and some other things of value and concealing 
them in the woods for safety, but that notwithstanding this 
they were destroyed, causing him to suffer considerable 
loss of property. She remembered also that frequently 
her mother and the children spent the night concealed in 
the woods for fear of being molested. In the summer of 
1780 he was on duty at the Middle Fort, Schoharie, and 
marched in pursuit of the enemy after the destruction of 
the Schoharie settlements, later serving at Fort Plain. In 
October, 1781, he was at the battle of Johnstown. His 
widow received a pension. 

Thornton, John : Born in Schenectady in 1753 ; died here, 
March 22, 1819. On June 20, 1778, he was commissioned 
second lieutenant in Captain Thomas Wasson's company, 
2d Albany County Militia. He performed service during 
the summer at Stone Arabia. On February 25, 1780, he 
was promoted to the rank of first lieutenant in Captain 
Wasson's company, and in the fall marched as far as Pala- 
tine when Sir John Johnson raided the settlements. On 
April 27, 1781, he was appointed a lieutenant in the nine- 
months Levies under Colonel Marinus Willett, and was 
attached to the company of Captain Stephen White. He 
served the full term in this company and in 1782 he was 
appointed a lieutenant in Captain Guy Young's company 
of Levies under Colonel Willett. He served in this com- 
pany until the summer of that year, when he was trans- 
ferred to the company of Captain Peter B. Tearse. In 
October, 1783, he was detached from this company and 
assigned to the command of Fort Stanwix. He continued 
in command there until May 10, 1784, when he was relieved 
and later discharged from the service. His widow received 
a pension. 



228 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



Thornton, Thomas: He is mentioned as having served as 
a private and as a lieutenant in Captain Thomas Wasson's 
company, 2d Albany County Militia. 

Toll, Charles: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Toll, Daniel: Baptized October 27, 1751. On October 20, 

1775, he was commissioned ensign in Captain John Van 
Patten's company, 2d Albany County Militia. He was 
reappointed June 20, 1778. In January, 1776, he took 
part in the expedition to Johnstown, and in May, 1778, 
was at Cobleskill. His name appears also as ensign in 
the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Toll, John : Buried September 12, 1804. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Truax, Abraham I.: He is mentioned as having served as 
an ensign in Captain Thomas Wasson's Company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Truax, Abraham J.: Born April 4, 1737. On March 1, 

1776, he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler for 
service at Lake George and Ticonderoga. He served as 
an ensign in Captain John Mynderse's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. On April 1, 1777, he was elected 
poundmaster at Schenectady, and on April 24 commanded 
a squad of forty-five men detailed for duty between Albany 
and Lake George. It is stated that he served as a lieuten- 
ant at the battle of Bemis Heights. On June 20, 1778, he 
was regularly commissioned ensign, and in the fall of 1780 
marched on an alarm to Fort Hunter. 

Tbuax, Abraham P. : Baptized April 28, 1753 ; died March 
13, 1822. Buried in Vale Cemetery. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Truax, Andries: Baptized April 29, 1739. His name ap- 
pears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land 
Bounty Rights. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 229 



Truax, Caleb: Born November 19, 1747; died in 1808. 
Buried on the old Van Auken farm in the town of Guild- 
erland. The grave is on the south bank of the Bozen- 
Kill and about five hundred feet east of the house. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Truax, Isaac: On April 1, 1777, he was elected a collector, 
and on May 8, was engaged by the Committee of Safety 
to ''tend the watch for the ensuing year, he having per- 
formed this service the past year." 

Truax, Isaac I. : Born in Schenectady, July 16, 1756 ; died 
December 21, 1854. In March, 1777, he enlisted under 
Lieutenant-Colonel Christopher Yates and performed duty 
at Fort Ann and Skenesborough until January, 1778, when 
he was honorably discharged. In October, 1781, he was 
drafted under Captain Walter Vrooman and served at 
the battle of Johnstown. Later in the same year, while 
serving in the same company he took part in an engage- 
ment with the enemy under Sir John Johnson and Joseph 
Brant. With sixty-three others he was taken prisoner and 
carried to Canada, where he was confined at Buck's 
Island. He remained a prisoner during the rest of the 
war and then returned to Schenectady. A pensioner under 
the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Truax, Jacob J. : Born April 4, 1737. On May 8, 1777, he 
was sent to Albany a prisoner by the Committee of Safety 
because it was reported that he had said that "he was no 
Tory but that he was a King's man, that he had been taken 
prisoner once before by the Committee of Schenectady 
and that he had a tomahawk ready if they came to take 
him again." He probably settled in Albany soon after 
this time. 

Truax, John : Born August 29, 1749. From March, 1777, 
to October, 1780, he served in Captain Giles Woleott's 
company. Colonel Seth Warner's regiment. He was in 
the retreat from Ticonderoga, the battle of Bennington 



230 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

and at Fort George, where his regiment was "almost en- 
tirely cut up and destroyed." Truax was paroled by his 
officer at Saratoga and permitted to return to Schenectady. 
During the years 1780 and 1781 he served under Colonel 
Willett in the Levies, A pensioner. 

Truax, John P, : Baptized July 27, 1755 ; died August 12, 
1817. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia as serving under Captain John Mynderse. 

Truax, Peter: Bom August 27, 1725; died August 27, 
1797. Buried in Vale Cemetery. His name appears on 
the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty 
Eights. 

Trumbull, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

TuTTLE, Ezra: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

TuTTLE, Solomon : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. The name of Solomon Tuttle 
appears on the rolls of the 4th Company, 2d New York 
Line. He enlisted on May 5, 1778, for nine months and 
was discharged on February 9, 1779. 

Tyms, Michael : Baptized September 18, 1763 ; died August 
28, 1804. Buried in Vale Cemetery. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Antwerp, Arent J. : On June 20, 1778, he was 
appointed ensign in Captain Abraham Van Eps 's company, 
2d Albany County Militia, but declined to serve. 

Van Antwerp, Gerrit: Born October 15, 1753; died May 
10, 1809. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia as serving under Captain Jellis J. Fonda. 

Van Antwerp, John : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. On February 8, 1776, as a 
guard he accompanied a prisoner to the Albany jail. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 231 

Van Antwerp, Peter: Baptized December 15, 1745. He 
lived at Prineetown. His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Antwerp, Peter A. : Born December 4, 1755. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Antwerp, Simon J. : Born at Schaghticoke, Albany 
County, February 2, 1751 ; died September 11, 1834. He 
was living in Schenectady when in September, 1775, he 
enlisted as orderly sergeant under Captain Tacarus Van 
der Bogart in a company of artificers. He served three 
months at Ticonderoga. From March 6 to November 20, 
1776, he served in Captain Ahasueras Marselis's company 
of artificers, with the same rank as before, employed in 
erecting barracks, storehouses and works of defense at Fort 
Ann and Lake George. He served thereafter until the 
end of the war, for the most part as orderly sergeant in 
the company of Captain Thomas Brower Banker, 2d 
Albany County Militia. In 1777 he served throughout 
the campaign against Burgoyne. He was at Lake George 
at the time of the surrender of Ticonderoga. He retreated 
to Fort Edward, then to Stillwater, where his company 
was stationed on September 14, when Burgoyne crossed 
the river. He took part in the battle of September 19, 
and in the battle of Bemis Heights. In 1778 he was sta- 
tioned at the Schoharie Forts and at Sacandaga erecting 
blockhouses. In 1780 he marched with the troops under 
Colonel "Willett in pursuit of Sir John Johnson and took 
part in the expedition to Ballston. A pension was allowed 
him but it was later suspended. 

Van Bentheuysen, Martin: On September 5, 1776, he 
enlisted in Captain John A. Bradt's company of State 
Rangers. On March 13, 1777, he enlisted for the war and 
was assigned to the 8th Company, 1st New York Line. He 
was discharged on November 13, 1778. His name appears 



232 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty 
Eights, 
Van Benthutsen, Peter: His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van der Bogart, Joseph: Born November 21, 1756. He 
was enrolled under Captain Jellis J. Fonda, 2d Albany 
County Militia. In 1777 he served in the campaign 
against Burgoyne. From December 24, 1779, to December 
24, 1780, he served as a sergeant under Captain Joseph 
Peek in the Quartermaster's Department. In October, 
1781, he went with a detachment of militia to Fort Herki- 
mer, where they joined the troops under Colonel Willett and 
marched to Jerseyfield. His widow received a pension. 

Van der Bogart, Nicholas: On December 5, 1776, he 
enlisted for the war and was assigned to the 8th Company, 
1st New York Line. On May 1, 1779, he was promoted 
to the rank of corporal. He served seven years and three 
months and received six hundred acres of land as a bounty. 

Van der Bogart, Tacarus: Baptized March 23, 1717; 
died in 1799. He lived on the north side of Front Street 
opposite Church Street. In September, 1775, he com- 
manded a company of artificers at Ticonderoga. On March 
1, 1776, he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler for 
service at Lake George and Ticonderoga. 

Van Derheyden, Daniel: Bom February 22, 1760. His 
name appears on the roUs of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Derheyden, David: Baptized in Albany, February 26, 
1758; died July 9, 1840. Buried in Vale Cemetery. A 
cooper by trade. He moved with his family to Schenec- 
tady about 1780, His village lot was on the north corner 
of Union and College Streets. In the spring of 1776, while 
living in Albany, he enlisted for six months under Cap- 
tain Henry Marselis, 1st New York Line. He served at 
Skenesborough, Fort George and Fort Ann. In March, 
1777, he enlisted and served for nine months in Captain 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 233 

Tennis Fisher's company of state troops under Lieuten- 
ant-Colonel Christopher C. Yates. He was on duty at 
Fort Ticonderoga on its evacuation and served during 
General Schuyler's retreat and until the surrender of Gen- 
eral Burgoyne. In 1778 he served for nine months in 
the state troops under Captain William Peters, employed 
in the transportation of military stores and in regular 
duty on the Mohawk River from Schenectady to Fort 
Stanwix. In 1779 he served four months in a company 
of artificers at Saratoga and later marched with the troops 
of General Clinton's division against the Indians. He 
helped build the dam across the outlet of Otsego Lake 
necessary to transfer the boats to the Susquehanna River. 
He remained at Tioga Point and there helped to take care 
of the sick soldiers who were left behind as the army pro- 
ceeded into the Indian country. On his removal to Sche- 
nectady he was enrolled under Captain Thomas Brower 
Banker, 2d Albany County Militia, and with his company 
marched to Ballston in pursuit of the enemy after the 
raid. In 1781 he enlisted and served four months in the 
Levies under Colonel Willett. A pensioner under the 
Act of June 7, 1832. 

Van der Volgen, Cornelius : Born July 25, 1731 ; died 
January 18, 1786. Buried in Vale Cemetery. On May 
7, 1776, he was elected a member of the third Committee 
of Safety. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, 

Van der Volgen, Nicholas: Born in August, 1722; died 
May 21, 1797. Buried in Vale Cemetery. A merchant liv- 
ing on State Street. On July 2, 1779, he was appointed 
one of a committee of four to sell salt to the people of the 
district. 

Van der Volgen, Peter: Born June 10, 1733. He lived 
in Princetown. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 



234 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Van der Werken, Martin : On December 5, 1776, he en- 
listed in Captain John A. Bradt's company of State 
Eangers. On March 20, 1777, he enlisted for three years 
in the 8th Company, 3d New York Line. He was dis- 
charged on March 20, 1780. 

Van Driesen, Henry: A member of the third and fourth 
Committees of Safety. 

Van Driesen, John: Baptized March 11, 1744. On Feb- 
ruary 10, 1776, he was appointed by the Committee of 
Safety adjutant of the 2d Albany County Militia, and on 
March 5 Henry Glen was instructed to apply to Congress 
for his commission. He was reappointed on June 20, 1778. 
In the fall of 1780 he was serving at Fort Hunter. 

Van Driesen, Peter: Born in Schenectady, May 4, 1763. 
He was residing at Palatine when he entered the service. 
In April, 1777, he volunteered for one year under Cap- 
tain Christian House, 2d Tryon County Militia. He served 
seven months and then, because of his father's illness, 
procured a substitute who served three months in his 
stead, after which time he returned and completed his 
term of service. At the expiration of his term he re-enlisted 
and served to the end of the war, with the exception of 
three months when Dennis Holembolt acted as a substi- 
tute for him. A pensioner. 

Van Dyck, Cornelius : Born October 8, 1740 ; died June 9, 
1792. Buried in Vale Cemetery. On May 27, 1775, he 
was appointed captain of militia by the Committee of 
Safety. On May 29 he was given orders for recruiting 
a company for the defense of Fort Ticonderoga, and on 
June 29 was commissioned captain by the Provincial 
Congress and assigned to the 2d New York Line. He 
served with distinction under General Montgomery and 
during the remainder of the Canadian campaign as a 
military aide-de-camp. On May 7, 1776, he was elected 
a member of the third Committee of Safety. On November 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 235 

21 he was commissioned a lieutenant-colonel and assigned 
to the 1st New York Line. During this year he was at 
one time acting as commandant at Fort George. On 
August 21, 1777, he was a member of a council of war 
held at German Flats under the presidency of Major 
Arnold. He was at the battle of Monmouth (June 28, 
1778), and on December 23 was in command of Fort Schuy- 
ler. He was in command of Fort Schuyler on October 25 
of the following year and on April 17, 1780. He served 
to the end of the war, and on September 30, 1783, was 
appointed colonel of the 1st New York Line. 

Van Dyck, Cornelius H.: Baptized February 27, 1763; 
died August 31, 1832. In 1777 he was enrolled under 
Captain Abraham Oothout, 2d Albany County Militia. 
During the fall and winter he performed three months' 
service at Saratoga, and is believed to have served through- 
out the campaign against Burgoyne. During the year 
1778 he was twice on duty at Schoharie, and in the fall 
served one month at Stone Arabia. He performed con- 
siderable service from 1779 to 1781 under various officers. 
A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Van Dyck, Cornelius N. : His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Dyck, Henry: Baptized August 29, 1731. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia and 
the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Van Dyck, Henry H. : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Dyck, Henry I. : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Eps, Abraham: Born October 15, 1738. He had a 
farm at the Aalplaats. On February 10, 1776, he was 
elected ensign of one of the newly organized Schenectady 
militia companies. During the summer of 1777 he served 



236 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

in the campaign against Burgoyne as captain of militia. 
He probably also served previous to this time as a captain, 
although the first recorded commission is that granted by 
the Council of Appointment June 20, 1778. He was in 
command of various details for the apprehension of Tories 
and for guard duty, his ''beat" being the Aalplaats, a par- 
ticularly exposed district. In the fall of 1780 he marched 
to Caughnawaga when the Mohawk settlements were 
destroyed. 

Van Eps, Alexander: Born in Schenectady, February 28, 
1762. He lived in Charlton. In February, 1778, he went 
out on scout duty twice in search of Joseph Bettis. In 
March, 1779, he enlisted under Lieutenant-Colonel Christo- 
pher C. Yates and for nine months performed fatigue duty 
at Schuyler's Mills, building boats, erecting barracks, etc. 
He was honorably discharged in December. In 1780 he was 
drafted into Captain John Mynderse's company, 2d Albany 
County Militia, for service at Schoharie, and in 1781 twice 
drafted into Captain Abraham Van Eps's company, the 
first time for service at Stone Arabia and the second for 
service at Tribes Hill. A pensioner under the Act of 
June 7, 1832. 

Van Eps, Gerrit: Bom in Schenectady, January 30, 1764; 
died in Glenville, May 19, 1844. In 1780 he was drafted, 
assigned to the company under Captain Abraham Van 
Eps, 2d Albany County Militia, and detailed for garrison 
duty at Stone Arabia. In 1781 he was again drafted into 
the same company and served at Fort Plank for a period 
of about three months. On one occasion he served on a 
scouting expedition to Clifton Park and Ballston in pursuit 
of the famous Tory, Joseph Bettis. He was frequently 
out on emergency duty. 

Van Eps, James: In March, 1777, he enlisted for nine 
months in Captain Abraham Van Eps's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. He served at Stillwater. He 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 237 

"was also in Captain Daniel Toll's company and went 
from his residence, about five miles from Schenectady to 
Caughnawaga and served one month when Caughnawaga 
was burnt." His widow's application for pension was 
rejected. 
Van Eps, John: Born in Glenville, December 27, 1764; 
died August 29, 1847. Buried in West Glenville. Family 
tradition says that he took part in the battle of Oriskany 
and was one of those who helped carry General Herkimer 
under the tree after he was wounded. In the fall of 1779 
he entered service as a substitute for his father and was 
enrolled under Captain John Van Patten, 2d Albany 
County Militia. His first expedition was to Fort Paris 
soon after he enlisted. In August, 1780, he was on duty 
when Brant laid waste the country around Canajoharie, 
and in October of the same year he marched with the 
troops under General Van Rensselaer in pursuit of Sir 
John Johnson after the destruction of the Mohawk settle- 
ments. In October, 1781, he went with the troops under 
Colonel Willett in pursuit of Major Ross and Butler. He 
fought at the battle of Johnstown and went with the 
Indians who pursued Walter Butler to the West Canada 
Creek. He took part in numerous expeditions and per- 
formed garrison duties on various occasions at many of 
the forts throughout the Valley. 

Van Eps, John Baptist: Baptized April 29, 1739; buried 
July 13, 1805. Buried in Vale Cemetery. He lived in 
Glenville. On January 14, 1776, the Committee of Safety 
was informed that last summer he had supplied Sir John 
Johnson with a quantity of powder. On May 13 he com- 
plained to the Board regarding the wrongful enlistment 
of an apprentice boy who was under him. On April 19, 
1777, he was granted a tavern license by the Committee, 
and on July 9 he furnished a wagon for use in the service. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia. 



238 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Van Eps, John J. : Bom in Schenectady, October 24, 1751. 
In 1775, he was enrolled in Captain John Mynderse's 
company, 2d Albany County Militia, and served in it until 
1777, when he was attached to the company under Cap- 
tain Abraham Oothout. In 1775 he performed six months' 
service at Lake George in a company of artificers under 
Captain Jacob Vrooman, and in this company served eight 
months at Skenesborough in 1776 and eight months at 
Coeymans in 1778. In 1776 he took part in the expedi- 
tion to Johnstown. In 1777 he was ordered to Fort 
Edward and served with the Northern Army until after 
the surrender of Burgoyne. He was one of the detach- 
ment that brought Burgoyne a prisoner to Albany. Dur- 
ing the summer of 1778 he performed garrison and field 
duty at Fort Plank and Fort Plain when Brant laid waste 
the Canajoharie district. In 1779 he was on garrison duty 
at the Middle Fort, Schoharie, and in the fall of 1780 was 
under arms at the time of the Ballston raid. He performed 
various garrison duties especially at Schenectady. 

Van Ess, Gerrit: On April 19, 1777, he was granted a 
tavern license by the Committee of Safety. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Etten, Benjamin: Born in 1757; died April 22, 
1823. On March 17, 1776, he enlisted for nine months 
under Captain Gerrit S. Veeder, Colonel Cornelius 
D. Wynkoop's regiment. He served until February 15, 
1777, when he was discharged. He was afterwards drafted 
and was present at the surrender of General Burgoyne. 
A pensioner under the Act of March 18, 1818. 

Van Gutsling, Cornelius: Baptized November 13, 1726. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia. 

Van Guysling, Elias: Died September 5, 1802. On April 
1, 1777, he was elected overseer of highways. His name 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 239 

appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land 
Bounty Rights. 

Van Guysling, Jacob: Born January 18, 1736; died 
November 19, 1803. His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia and the 2d Albany County 
Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Van Guysling, Peter: Born in 1744; died November 20, 
1824. He lived on the north side of Front Street, his 
house being removed at the laying out of Governor's Lane, 
part of the lot on which it stood being used for the street. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia and the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty 
Rights. 

Van Ingen, Dirk: Born September 19, 1738; died Feb- 
ruary 27, 1814. Buried in Vale Cemetery. He lived on 
Church Street in the second house north of the Dutch 
Church. On November 7, 1775, he was elected a member 
of the second Committee of Safety, being appointed chair- 
man on December 29. He was clerk of the Committee, 
taking office June 2, 1777, and served on several subse- 
quent Committees. From May 9, 1777, to January 18, 1780 
(when he was reduced as a supernumerary), he served in 
the general hospitals of the Northern Department, eight 
months as junior and the remainder of the time as senior 
surgeon. From May to June, 1778, he was at the Scho- 
harie Forts, where he took charge of the wounded after 
the battle of Cobleskill. On June 24, 1779, he was again 
elected a member of the Committee of Safety and on July 
2 was appointed clerk of the Board. During the fall of 
1780 he was in charge of the hospital at Schenectady, 
where he dressed the wounds of Colonel Brown's soldiers 
who were brought down after the battle of Klock's Field. 

Van Ingen, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 



240 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Van Ingen, John Visscher : Bom November 11, 1764 ; died 
Au^st 30, 1839. His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. In the fall of 1782 he served 
on scout duty at Jessup's Patent with a detail of Oneida 
Indians to apprehend Tories and deserters from the 
American cause. 

Van Ingen, Joseph: Baptized October 3, 1762. He was 
living in Schenectady when he entered service. From 
November, 1778, to May 1, 1779, he acted as surgeon's 
mate under his father, Dirk Van Ingen, at Schenectady, 
with the rank of first lieutenant; from June to November, 
1779, he acted as clerk and surgeon's mate under Doctor 
Stephen McCrea, physician and surgeon-general of the 
Flying Hospital, Continental Army ; from November, 1779, 
to May, 1780, he acted as clerk and surgeon's mate under 
his father; from May to June, 1780, as clerk in the 
Quartermaster's Department of General Clinton's brigade; 
from June to August 1, 1780, as clerk to the Commissary 
General; from August 1, 1780, to May 1, 1781, as con- 
ductor of ordnance and military stores under appointment 
from General Clinton, with rank and pay of first lieuten- 
ant; from May 1 to September 1, 1781, as first lieutenant 
in Captain Hale's company, Colonel Willett's Levies. He 
served in Sullivan's campaign against the Indians and was 
in the battle of Newtown. He often performed duty as a 
surgeon at the hospital in Schenectady, and while con- 
ductor of ordnance had charge of a United States gun- 
smith's or armorer's shop located on Ferry Street. Here 
several gunsmiths were employed for about a year in repair- 
ing arms. Van Ingen is remembered at this time as wear- 
ing ' ' a kind of mixed coat and a cocked hat with a cockade 
thereon." He is spoken of as having been "actively and 
zealously engaged throughout the war." A pensioner. 

Van Patten, Aaron N. : Baptized July 1, 1744. On 
October, 1775, he was recommended to the Provincial 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 241 

Congress by the Committee of Safety to fill the office of 
adjutant among the field officers to be assigned to the 2d 
Albany County Militia. On October 20 a commission was 
issued in his name, but on January 13, 1776, he refused 
to accept it. On January 15, 1777, he was a member of 
the Committee of Safety. His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Patten, Adam : Born in Glenville, November 17, 1757. 
He lived there during the war and afterwards moved to 
Kotterdam. Early in 1776 he enrolled under Captain 
John Van Patten, 2d Albany County Militia, serving as a 
drummer. In the fall of the same year he performed gar- 
rison duty at Fort Edward and Fort Ann, and in the 
summer of 1777 he was at Fort Edward. He served two 
months during Schuyler 's retreat, after which he was taken 
sick and permitted to return home. In 1778 he performed 
garrison duty at the Schoharie Forts, and later went on 
several tours in pursuit of Tories. A pensioner under the 
Act of June 7, 1832. 

Van Patten, Andrew: Baptized March 5, 1754. On May 
27, 1775, he was appointed first lieutenant in Captain Jellis 
J. Fonda's company, 2d Albany County Militia, and on 
October 20 he was commissioned by the Provincial Con- 
gress, being reappointed on June 20, 1778, 

Van Patten, Dirk: Baptized January 3, 1724-5. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. 

Van Patten, Frederick: Born in Glenville, November 11, 
1760. He lived there during and after the war. In 
November, 1776, he was enrolled as orderly sergeant under 
Captain John Van Patten, 2d Albany County Militia. In 
March, 1777, he enlisted for ten months in a company of 
batteaumen under Captain Myndert R. Wemple. He per- 
formed service cutting wood for the garrison at Schenec- 
tady and in transporting provisions and ammunition from 



242 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Schenectady to Fort Stanwix. In June, 1778, after the 
destruction of Cobleskill, he assisted in burying the dead 
and in pursuit of the enemy. In 1780 he served two months 
on guard duty at Saratoga after the burning of Caughna- 
waga. In October, 1781, he marched to Johnstown, but was 
there taken sick and sent home. A pensioner under the 
Act of June 7, 1832. 

Van Patten, Feederick D. : Baptized February 15, 1761 ; 
died September 3, 1832. Cornelius Z. Van Santvoord 
stated that while he was serving as an ensign in Captain 
Abraham Oothout's company, 2d Albany County Militia, 
Van Patten "told him that he was about sixteen and 
prayed to be enrolled in said company, which request 
[was] complied with by advice and consent of his supe- 
rior officers. When warned he [Van Patten] was always 
at his post and conducted himself with zeal and fidelity." 
Van Santvoord further stated that he "was with him at 
Saratoga, Fort Edward, Fort Plain, Fort Plank, Ballston, 
Schoharie and Cobleskill, said Frederick ever evincing the 
utmost readiness to serve his country and to risk his life 
on perilous occasions for her benefit, ' ' His widow received 
a pension. 

Van Patten, Frederick S. : His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Patten, Henry: Baptized April 2, 1753. He served 
as a private and as a sergeant under Captain John Van 
Patten, 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Patten, John : Bom September 29, 1739 ; died Janu- 
ary 10, 1809. Buried in a private cemetery on the old 
Tennis Swart farm about one and a half miles west from 
the village of West Charlton. On May 27, 1775, he was 
elected captain of the 3d Company of Schenectady militia, 
and on October 20 a commission was issued in his name by 
the Provincial Congress. In January, 1776, he took part 
in the expedition to Johnstown. On January 14, he was 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 243 

ordered to place guards at William De Graff's, Teunis 
Swart 's and Lewis Peek's ''to prevent any unfriendly- 
persons or letters from passing upwards." On March 1 
he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler for service 
at Lake George and Ticonderoga. On April 1, 1777, he 
was elected overseer of highways at Schenectady. He 
served throughout the campaign against General Bur- 
goyne, was mentio? ^d for bravery by General Gates at 
the battle of Saratoga and was assigned to carry the news 
of the British surrender to Albany. (Family tradition.) 
On June 20, 1778, he was appointed "captain of the com- 
pany of the Beat wherein he resided" (the Westina). 
Captain Van Patten's company performed guard and 
patrol duty throughout his "beat" during the whole of 
the war, this being an especially exposed position. In 
November, 1778, he was in command of a detail on garri- 
son duty at Switzerbergh near Caughnawaga. In the fall 
of 1779 he was at Fort Paris, and in October, 1780, in 
command of a detachment in pursuit of Sir John Johnson. 
Van Patten resigned from the service towards the close 
of the war. 

Van Patten, Nicholas: On August 11, 1777, he was 
arrested by a detail of militia and Continental troops with 
sixteen Tories found in his house and barn with their 
arms and accoutrements. He was sent to the Albany jail. 
On August 13 the Albany Committee refused his release. 

Van Patten, Nicholas A. : He served as a corporal and as 
a sergeant in the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Patten, Nicholas H. : His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Patten, Nicholas R. : His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Patten, Nicholas S. : Baptized October 21, 1750 ; died 
in Glenville, July 15, 1829. His name appears on the rolls 



244 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

of the 2d Albany Comity Militia as serving under Captain 
John Van Patten. 

Van Patten, Peter: Baptized May 5, 1751. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land 
Bounty Eights. 

Van Patten, Philip: Bom February 12, 1743; died Sep- 
tember 15, 1812. His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Patten, Simon F. : Baptized January 6, 1751. On 
October 20, 1775, he was commissioned second lieutenant 
in Captain John Van Patten 's company, 2d Albany County 
Militia. His name does not appear on the roster of regi- 
mental officers June 20, 1778 (Archives, State of New 
York), although John De Graff states (Pension Office 
Eecords R 10947) that in November, 1778, he served 
under him at a place called Switzerburgh near Caughna- 
waga, at which time he was acting as a second lieutenant 
in Captain Van Patten's company. John Van Eps also 
states (Pension Office Records W 27862) that Van Patten 
occupied such a position in the fall of 1779. 

Van Santvoord, Cornelius Z. : Bom in Schenectady, May 
29, 1757; died March 12, 1845. He lived in Schenectady 
all his life. In 1776 he was an ensign in Captain Abraham 
Oothout's company, 2d Albany County Militia. In June, 
1776, he went to German Flats with General Schuyler 
when he went to effect the Indian treaty. The same year 
he marched to Fort Ann, Fort Edward and Skenes- 
borough. He was with the Northern Army during Schuy- 
ler's retreat and at the battle of Bemis Heights. On June 
20, 1778, he was commissioned ensign by Governor Clin- 
ton. He performed service at Sacandaga under General 
Clinton, twice at Fort Hunter, at Caughnawaga, Johns- 
town, Canajoharie, Fort Plain, Fort Plank, the Schoharie 
Forts, Cobleskill, Ballston and Stone Arabia. The details 
of these duties are not available but they were undoubt- 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 245 

edly performed in connection with the raids made at the 
various points enumerated. A pensioner under the Act 
of June 7, 1832. 

Van Santvoord, Zegee : Born October 12, 1733 ; died April 
18, 1813. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Van Schaick, Gerrit: On March 1, 1776, he signed an 
agreement with Philip Schuyler for service at Lake George 
and Ticonderoga. His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. In 1778 he was enrolled under 
Captain Jesse Van Slyck. 

Van Sice, Abraham : Bom" November 27, 1763. In June, 
1779, he enlisted under Captain Thomas Brower Banker, 
2d Albany County Militia, for duty at Caughnawaga, 
and in August of the same year, he went to Fort Plank 
as a volunteer also under Captain Banker. He served at 
various times thereafter at Fort Plank, Beaverdam, Balls- 
ton, Schoharie, Stone Arabia, Canajoharie and on several 
scouting expeditions with the Oneidas, being assigned to 
the detachments at the special request of the Indians. In 
1781 he was a member of Captain John Crousehorn's 
company of artillery. 

Van Sice, Cornelius: Born March 29, 1737. On March 
1, 1776, he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler for 
service at Lake George and Ticonderoga. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. In 1778 he 
was enrolled under Captain Jesse Van Slyck. 

Van Sice, Gysbert: Baptized October 17, 1762. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia and 
the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Eights. From 
May 1, 1779, to January 1, 1780, he served in the 3d Com- 
pany, 4th New York Line. 

Van Sice, Isaac: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 



246 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Van Sice, Jacobus: Born August 19, 1733. On March. 1, 
1776, he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler for 
service at Lake George and Ticonderoga. On December 
6, 1777, he was reported as having "suffered greatly" in 
a late fire. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Van Sice, John : Born January 16, 1726. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Sice, Joseph: Baptized June 29, 1755. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. In 
1778 he was enrolled under Captain Jesse Van Slyck. 

Van Slyck, Adrian: Baptized June 23, 1751. He served 
as a corporal and sergeant under Captain Jellis J. Fonda, 
2d Albany County Militia, and as a sergeant under Cap- 
tain John Mynderse. In 1778 he was enrolled under 
Captain Jesse Van Slyck. 

Van Slyck, Andrew : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Slyck, Anthony : Baptized April 29, 1733. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Slyck, Arent: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Slyck, Cornelius A.: Bom June 3, 1744; died 
January 27, 1799. On July 28, 1778, he was appointed 
second lieutenant in a company of Exempts formed in 
Schenectady under Captain Jacob Schermerhorn. 

Van Slyck, Cornelius P. : Baptized December 1, 1736. On 
May 27, 1775, he was elected first lieutenant in Captain 
John Van Patten's company, 2d Albany County Militia. 
On May 29 he was appointed ensign in a company in the 
Continental Service under Captain Cornelius Van Dyck, 
for duty at Ticonderoga. On June 23 he was promoted 
to the rank of lieutenant and in this capacity served in 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 247 

the Canadian campaign, his company taking part in the 
siege of St. John's and forming part of the detachment 
that reduced Chamblee. On March 1, 1776, he signed an 
agreement with Philip Schuyler for service at Lake George 
and Ticonderoga, and on April 24, 1777, was in command 
of a detail of forty-five men for duty between Albany and 
Lake George. On May 7 he was elected a member of the 
third Committee of Safety. 

Van Slyck, Harmanus: His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. On February 8, 1776, he 
was detailed as a guard over a prisoner under committment 
to the Albany jail. 

Van Slyck, Harmanus A. : Baptized June 3, 1750. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. 

Van Slyck, Jesse : Born June 29, 1744 ; died in September, 
1815. On February 10, 1776, he was appointed first lieu- 
tenant in Captain Ahasueras Marselis's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. He probably was appointed cap- 
tain soon after. In April, 1777, he was in command of a 
detail which marched to Saratoga, where they joined four 
hundred of the Vermont militia under Colonel Seth 
Warner and proceeded to Jessup's Patent, where "one 
Morrell," sent by the British, was actively engaged in 
enlisting troops and erecting fortifications. He com- 
manded a company throughout the campaign against 
General Burgoyne, and in April, 1778, commanded part of 
his company which joined a detachment of one hundred 
and twenty-five whites and a few Indians under Major 
Abraham Swits for service in apprehending Tories at 
Beaverdam. In June he commanded a scout of fifteen 
whites and seven Indians to Cobleskill. On June 20 he 
was regularly commissioned captain, and in July was at 
Fort Plain on garrison duty. In March, 1780, he com- 
manded a detail of thirty men to Stone Arabia, and in 



248 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

April went on scout duty to Glens Falls with fifteen whites 
and five Indians. From July to August he was stationed 
with a company of eighty men at the Middle Fort, Scho- 
harie, and marched in command of a company against 
Joseph Brant after the destruction of Canajoharie. In 
October he was on garrison duty at Fort Plank. He did 
not go with the troops under General Van Rensselaer 
against Sir John Johnson but remained at Fort Plain. In 
July, 1781, he was with a detail of thirty men from Sche- 
nectady on garrison duty at Fort Hunter, and in October 
commanded a company in pursuit of Major Ross and But- 
ler after the burning of Warren's Bush, on which occa- 
sion his detachment captured twenty-seven prisoners. In 
October and November, 1782, he was on garrison duty 
at Fort Herkimer. 

Van Slyck, Martin: Baptized October 20, 1748. On 
March 1, 1776, he signed an agreement with Philip Schuy- 
ler for service at Lake George and Ticonderoga. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia and 
the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. In 
1778 he was enrolled under Captain Jesse Van Slyck. 

Van Slyck, Peter: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Slyck, Samuel: Baptized March 17, 1738. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land 
Bounty Rights. 

Van Vleck, Benjamin: Born in Schenectady, January 10, 
1756; living in 1837. A carpenter and wagoner by trade. 
On March 1, 1776, he enlisted as an artificer under Cap- 
tain Jacob Vrooman and served at Fort George until 
December. On March 1, 1777, he again enlisted as an 
artificer under Jacob Van Deusen of Albany. He was 
stationed at Fort Miller, Fort Edward, Fort George and 
Ticonderoga, building boats in each of these places. He 
left Ticonderoga when the fortress was evacuated by Gen- 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 249 

eral St. Clair and proceeded to within a few miles of 
Albany, returning later to Saratoga. He was present at 
the surrender of General Burgoyne. On March 1, 1778, 
he again enlisted as an artificer under Captain Jacob Vroo- 
man, and served in building barracks and batteaux at Sara- 
toga and in rebuilding General Schuyler's mills and house. 
His claim for pension was rejected. 

Van Vokst, Abraham: Baptized April 3, 1743; died about 
1833. He lived near Burnt Hills. His name appears on 
the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty 
Eights. 

Van Vorst, Ahasueras: Baptized August 24, 1735. His 
name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. 

Van Vorst, James : He first entered the service under Cap- 
tain Van Sice, and from the spring of 1777 to the winter 
of 1780 he served as baggage master under appointment 
from Henry Glen, being stationed at Schenectady, where 
he assisted in the transportation of supplies. His widow's 
claim for pension was rejected. 

Van Vorst, James J. : Born in 1763. In 1778 he was 
enrolled in Captain Jesse Van Slyck's company, 2d Albany 
County Militia. In the spring of 1779 he enlisted in 
Captain Silas Grey's company, 4th New York Line, and 
continued in this company until 1781, when he was detailed 
under Colonel Henry Glen for service in the Quarter- 
master's Department for duty as a hostler at the Conti- 
nental stables in Schenectady. A pensioner under the Act 
of May 15, 1828. 

Van Vorst, Jellis: Born October 14, 1747; died August 
9, 1823. In 1775 he enlisted under Captain Cornelius Van 
Dyck and served eleven months. He was at Quebec. In 
August, 1777, he enlisted in Captain Giles Woleott's 
company, Colonel Seth Warner's regiment, and served 



250 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



until October, 1780, when he was taken prisoner by the 
enemy at Fort George. He was taken to Canada and 
remained there until 1782, when he managed to escape and 
returned to find his regiment disbanded. His name ap- 
pears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. He 
received bounty lands from the State. A pensioner under 
the Act of March 18, 1818. 

Van Vorst, John B. : On August 15, 1778, it was certified 
by several of the more prominent inhabitants that he had 
kept a ferry for some time past across the Mohawk River 
at his house about a mile below the town, that a ferry was 
necessary there and that said Van Vorst was the proper 
person to keep it. 

Van Voest, John Jacob: Born in Schenectady, January 
19, 1741 ; died in Glenville, May 23, 1844. In the winter 
of 1775, with a detachment under Captain Jesse Van 
Slyck, he joined the troops destined to attack Quebec. 
He performed three weeks' service, probably with the 
force that went as far as Skenesborough and returned. In 

1776, at Fort Edward, he was drafted from the ranks by 
the quartermaster general to serve as wagon master. He 
received no regular appointment as such until September, 

1777, when a commission was issued in his name under 
which he served to the close of the war. In addition to 
his own personal services "at his own individual cost of 
£28 in specie in March, 1778, [he] furnished a recruit 
named John Able to enlist and serve as private in the 
army during the War." Van Vorst served in the cam- 
paign against Burgoyne at Fort Edward, Snookkill and 
Bemis Heights. The greater part of his service was, how- 
ever, performed as barrack master at Schenectady, where, 
under Henry Glen, he superintended the transportation of 
ammunition, baggage and provisions to the different posts. 
He "was frequently employed on important and confi- 
dential occasions as an Express rider," and is spoken of 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 251 

as having been ''a faithful and highly useful friend to 
his Country. ' ' 

Van Vorst, Peter : Baptized February 14, 1739. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Vorst, Philip D. : Baptized December 22, 1745 ; died 
April 3, 1830. On June 20, 1778, he was commissioned 
second lieutenant in Captain Abraham Van Eps's com- 
pany, 2d Albany County Militia. His name appears on 
the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty 
Rights. 

Van Vranken, Derick: His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. A pensioner under the 
Act of June 7, 1832. 

Van Vranken, Gerrit: Born in Niskayuna, March 10, 
1757. From June to December, 1776, he was enrolled 
under Captain Nicholas Van de Kar, 12th Albany County 
Militia, From June to October 4, 1777, he served as a 
volunteer under Captain Nanning Visscher of the same 
regiment. He went to Fort Edward, Saratoga, Stillwater 
and then to Niskayuna, where he remained until after 
Burgoyne's surrender. In June, 1778, he volunteered for 
service at Cherry Valley under Captain Collins, and in 
July went to Fort Plain under Captain John Vander- 
burgh. During the year 1779 he moved to Schenectady 
and resided here for one year. He was enrolled under 
Captain Jellis J. Fonda, 2d Albany County Militia, and 
in September went as a volunteer to Stone Arabia. His 
claim for pension was rejected. 

Van Vranken, Maus : Born in Schenectady, May 23, 1756 ; 
died July 1, 1833. He resided in Schenectady until 1830. 
He entered service some time in 1776 under Captain Jellis 
J. Fonda, 2d Albany County Militia, and served through- 
out the war whenever called upon. He served about nine 
months in each of the years 1776 and 1777, mostly with 



252 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

the Northern Army. He was at Stillwater, but not in the 
battle, being out on scout duty. He served at Skenes- 
borough. Fort Ann, Fort George and was present at Bur- 
goyne's surrender. He volunteered to go to Bennington 
but was recalled after having started because some of the 
officers claimed they had no right to take their troops out- 
side the State. In 1778 he served about six months, prin- 
cipally at Fort Hunter, Fort Plain and Caughnawaga. 
On the call to Fort Hunter, Van Vranken and six others 
took with them a ' ' six pounder. ' ' He volunteered to march 
to Fort Plain to cheek the raid of Butler and on this 
occasion also took the cannon, his detachment firing it as 
they approached the fort to alarm the enemy. They pur- 
sued the enemy for three days. He served about four 
months each year in each of the four succeeding years. 
This service was mostly in and about Schenectady, Balls- 
ton, Schoharie and Caughnawaga. A pensioner. 

Van Vranken, Nicholas: His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Van Vranken, Nicholas N. : His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany Comity Militia. 

Van Vranken, Richard: Bom in Schenectady, August 15, 
1763. In 1779 he volunteered under Captain Thomas 
Brower Banker, 2d Albany County Militia, and in August 
was on duty for three weeks on a tour to Herkimer and 
again in the fall for two weeks to Fort Plank. In the 
summer of 1780 he was on garrison duty at Fort Plank, 
and in October of the same year he volunteered to march 
to Fort Hunter with a party of twenty or thirty others 
from Schenectady. They did not, however, arrive at the 
fort until after the battle of Johnstown and while the 
troops were in pursuit of the enemy. In 1781 he was on 
various tours to Fort Hunter, Stone Arabia and Fort 
Plank. On one occasion he served as a sergeant. A pen- 
sioner. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 253 

Van Vranken, Rtckert: Buried September 12, 1805. On 
March 1, 1776, he signed an agreement with Philip Schuy- 
ler for service at Lake George and Ticonderoga, His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. In 
1779 he was in command of the guard at Schenectady. 

Vedder, Albert A, : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Vedder, Albert H. : Born in Schenectady ; baptized March 
17, 1737; died in Amsterdam, June 21, 1800. "A man 
of note and a recognized patriot. He was captured by the 
Indians and Tories in a raid through the Valley but dur- 
ing the retreat to Canada escaped and returned home." 

Vedder, Albert L. : Born in the Schenectady Township, 
October 28, 1759. In October, 1775, he was enrolled under 
Captain Abraham Oothout, 2d Albany County Militia. In 
the spring of 1776 he enlisted for four months in a com- 
pany of artificers under Jacob Vrooman and was employed 
in building boats, storehouses, etc., at Ticonderoga, Lake 
George, Skenesborough and Saratoga. In the spring of 
1777 he again enrolled under Captain Oothout, and in the 
summer of the same year served under Captain John Myn- 
derse with the Northern Army during Schuyler's retreat 
and until the surrender of Burgoyne. In the fall of 1778 
he served two months on draft at Fort Paris, and in the 
summer of 1779 was at Fort Plain. When Canajoharie 
was burned he was ordered to Fort Plank. In the spring 
of 1780 he was ordered to Fort Hunter when Caughna- 
waga was destroyed. He performed various guard and 
garrison duties. A pensioner. 

Vedder, Alexander: Born in Albany, February 20, 1709; 
died in October, 1780. A member of the Committees of 
Safety taking office June 2, 1777, and January 5, 1778. 
The election of members to the Board taking office January 
5, 1778, was held at his house, where were also held many 



254 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

of the Committee meetings. His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Vedder, Arent a. : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Vedder, Arent S. : Bom August 14, 1735. He lived in 
Niskayuna. On February 10, 1776, he was elected second 
lieutenant in Captain Thomas Brower Banker's company, 
2d Albany County Militia. On March 1, 1776, he signed 
an agreement with Philip Schuyler for service at Lake 
George and Ticonderoga. On June 20, 1778, he was regu- 
larly commissioned second lieutenant in Captain Banker's 
company. In September or October, he served at Fort 
Plank and Stone Arabia, and in 1781 at Fort Hunter, Fort 
Plank and Stone Arabia. 

Vedder, Francis: Baptized August 27, 1749. A merchant. 
On March 1, 1776, he signed an agreement with Philip 
Schuyler for service at Lake George and Ticonderoga. In 
May, 1778, he commanded a scout to Sacandaga, and on 
June 20 was commissioned second lieutenant in Captain 
Jesse Van Slyck's company, 2d Albany County Militia. 
In November he commanded a detail of thirty-six men 
for garrison duty at Fort Plain, and in May, 1780, com- 
manded a detail of thirteen men to Viele's Rifts to bring 
scows from the north to the south side of the river to 
prevent the enemy from crossing. In June, as an ensign, 
he commanded a detachment on an alarm to Schoharie in 
pursuit of Sir John Johnson, Brant and Butler, and on 
his return performed garrison duty at Schenectady. In 
August, 1781, he went to Viele's Rifts on scout duty with 
a squad of ten men, and in May, 1782, he was on patrol 
duty at Harpersfield. 

Vedder, Frederick: Bom in Glenville, April 28, 1761. In 
1779 he enrolled under Captain Abraham Oothout; 2d 
Albany County Militia, and in September performed duty 
at Stone Arabia and in October at Caughnawaga. On May 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 255 

22, 1780, he was sent to warn out the company to go to 
Caughnawaga at the time the family of the Vissehers 
was murdered. He was on duty three weeks. In 1780 he 
served two weeks at Fort Hunter; two weeks at Cana- 
joharie, when the town was destroyed; two weeks at Fort 
Clyde, and in October eight days at Ballston. From 
August 1 to November 1, 1781, he was stationed at Claas 
Viele's Rifts. A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Vedder, Harmanus: Baptized March 4, 1739. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. In 
1778 he employed Joseph De Golyer as a substitute. 

Vedder, John: Early in 1776, he went to Caughnawaga as 
a private under Captain John Van Patten, 2d Albany 
County Militia. On September 17 he enlisted in Captain 
John A. Bradt's company of State Rangers, and served 
in it until the company was disbanded in the spring of 
1777, after which he enlisted as a minute man under Cap- 
tain Jellis J. Fonda. In 1778 he served under Captain 
Jesse Van Slyck, and in October, 1779, was on duty at 
Stone Arabia. In 1781 he was a member of Captain John 
Crousehorn's company of artillery. His widow received 
a pension. 

Vedder, John : On February 25, 1780, he was commissioned 
ensign in Captain John Van Eps's company, 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Vedder, Nicholas Alexander: On July 9, 1777, he was 
appointed to serve in the commissary department during 
the absence of the militia at Fort Edward, but on account 
of complaints (he being enrolled in the militia) he was 
later ordered to accompany the troops. He served as a 
private in the 2d Albany County Militia under various 
captains and as a corporal under Captain Abraham 
Oothout. 

Vedder, Philip : Baptized July 9, 1737 ; died May 6, 1822. 
He lived in Rotterdam. In November, 1776, he was serving 



256 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

as a lieutenant under Captain John Van Patten, 2d Albany 
County Militia. In May, 1778, he was on duty at Cobles- 
kill. On June 20 he was regularly commissioned second 
lieutenant in Captain Van Patten's company. 

Vedder, Simon H. : Baptized November 11, 1744. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Veeder, Parent: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Veeder, Cornelius : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Veeder, Gerrit (S. or N.) : Bom in 1751. On May 27, 
1775, he was appointed a second lieutenant in a com- 
pany of minute men formed in Schenectady. In July he 
was appointed first lieutenant in Captain John Mynderse's 
company, being granted a commission by the Provincial 
Congress on October 20. In January, 1776, he took part 
in the expedition to Johnstown. In February he was 
appointed captain of a company raised in Schenectady 
for the Canadian service, and on March 1 he was com- 
missioned a captain in the Continental Line under Colonel 
Cornelius D. Wynkoop. On April 10 he was appointed 
captain of a company of State Rangers in place of John 
A. Bradt, and on October 7 was commissioned captain of 
the 8th Company, 1st New York Line. On December 5 
he resigned this commission but served as a captain with 
the New York troops to the end of the war. In 1777 he 
served in the campaign against Burgoyne and had com- 
mand of a detachment at the battle of Bemis Heights. 
On July 1, 1782, he commanded a detail of forty men to 
Fort Plain and Fort Plank to act as guards while the crops 
were being harvested. A pensioner under the Act of June 
7, 1832. 

Veeder, Helmar S. : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 257 

Veeder, Hendrick: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Veeder, John B. : Bom in the Schenectady Township, 
November 6, 1760; died in Munroe County in August, 
1847. He lived in the Schenectady Township for four- 
teen years after the Revolution. In 1777 he served a short 
time on guard duty at Schenectady as a substitute. In 
June, 1779, he served under Captain Thomas Brower 
Banker, 2d Albany County Militia, erecting blockhouses 
at Sacandaga. In the fall of 1779, he was drafted for 
duty at Fort Plank and Fort Paris, and in the spring of 
1780 he went to Caughnawaga under Captain Banker. He 
was at Fort Plain when the Canajoharie settlements were 
destroyed and when Colonel Willett asked for volunteers 
for the pursuit of the enemy, Veeder "was the first man 
who spoke and expressed his willingness to go and he did 
go together with a large detachment." In 1781 he was 
a member of Captain John Crousehorn's company of artil- 
lery. He performed various garrison and guard duties 
and went on several expeditions in pursuit of Tories. 

Veeder, John H. : Born June 2, 1718 ; died August 4, 1794, 
On March 1, 1776, he signed an agreement with Philip 
Schuyler for service at Lake George and Ticonderoga. On 
April 1, 1777, he was elected overseer of highways at Sche- 
nectady. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Veeder, Nicholas G. : Born in Glenville, December 25, 
1761; died April 7, 1862. Toward the end of the year 
1777 he enrolled under Captain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d 
Albany County Militia. In July, 1778, he went on a 
scout to Ballston and Galway, and in November, 1779, he 
was on garrison duty at Fort Paris. In August, 1780, he 
marched with a detachment against a party of the enemy 
under Joseph Brant after the destruction of Canajoharie, 
and in October of the same year went to Ballston when 



■258 BISTORT OF SCHENECTADY 

it was attacked. In October, 1781, he marched to Johns- 
town and on his return guarded some prisoners to Sche- 
nectady. He was out on many alarms in pursuit of Tories 
and performed various guard and garrison duties. This 
is the Nicholas Veeder who is well remembered by many of 
the older generation as the last survivor of the Revolution 
in Schenectady. After the war he lived in a building 
known as the "Old Fort," situated in the present village 
of Scotia a few hundred feet north of the Vley Road and 
about one hundred feet west of Halcyon Street. The build- 
ing was removed in 1891, A pensioner under the Act of 
June 7, 1832. 

Veeder, Nicholas P. : Born February 9, 1734 ; died Novem- 
ber 11, 1807. His house was on the lot bounded by Front, 
Green and Ferry Streets. On October 5, 1775, he was 
recommended to the Provincial Congress by the Committee 
of Safety to fill the office of second major among the field 
officers to be assigned to the Schenectady militia. On 
October 20 a commission was issued in his name, but on 
January 13, 1776, he refused to accept it. He is spoken 
of as having served as a captain in the Quartermaster's 
Department during the year 1776, although the records at 
"Washington make special mention of the fact that there is 
no evidence to show that he so served. On March 3, 1777, 
he was a member of the Committee of Safety. His name 
appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Veeder, Peter S. : On May 10, 1776, General Schuyler was 
informed by the Committee of Safety that he had gone 
to Lake George without the permission of the Board and 
that he had repeatedly refused to sign the General Asso- 
ciation. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. In 1778 he was enrolled under Captain 
Jesse Van Slyck. 

Veeder, Simon: Born in Schenectady, May 1, 1748. Early 
in 1776, while living at Caughnawaga, he was appointed a 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 259 

sergeant under Captain John Davis, 3d Tryon County 
Militia. In July he was drafted for the Line but hired 
a substitute. During the fall he was stationed at Johns- 
town. He was not at the battle of Oriskany but was with 
the troops that went to the relief of Fort Stanwix, later 
marching to Saratoga and being present at the surrender 
of Burgoyne. In October, 1780, acting as quartermaster, 
he went with the troops under General Van Rensselaer 
in pursuit of Sir John Johnson and fought at the battle 
of Klock's Field. During this raid of the enemy Veeder's 
barn, mills, tannery and brewery were burned and he 
"very narrowly escaped with his life, under a discharge 
of more than 100 guns at him." In the spring of 1781 
he received the appointment of quartermaster in the 3d 
Tryon County MiHtia and served in this capacity to the 
end of the war, commanding a detachment of the troops 
that marched against Major Ross in October of that year. 
In May, 1782, he was again drafted and again hired a 
substitute; he, however, performed military duty during 
both this year and 1783. 

Yeeder, Simon B. : Bom in Schenectady in 1753 ; died in 
1810. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. "He was at the storming of the block- 
house at Johnstown, where his wife nursed the sick and 
wounded." 

Veeder, Simon H. : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Veeder, Wilhelmus: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Viele, Philip : Bom July 7, 1745 ; died August 7, 1797. In 
1776 he was enrolled under Captain John Van Patten, 
2d Albany County Militia, serving in January on the 
expedition to Johnstown, and in the fall performing gar- 
rison duty at Fort Ann. In 1777 he performed two 
months' service with the Northern Army as sergeant, 



260 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

which rank he seems to have held to the end of the war. 
He was present at the battle of Bemis Heights, During 
the summer and early fall of 1778 he was on duty at the 
Lower Fort, Schoharie, In the fall of 1779 he served at 
Fort Plain and Stone Arabia, and in the fall of 1781 was 
on guard duty at Claas Viele 's Fort. His son 's application 
for pension was rejected. 

VisscHER, John: Before the war a justice of the peace at 
Schenectady. On October 25, 1776, he was reported to 
the General Committee at Albany as "a person disaffected 
to the cause of American liberty." In May, 1777, he was 
recommended to the field officers as " a dangerous person. ' ' 
On May 22, he voluntarily took the oath that he would 
take up arms in defense of the country in case of any 
invasion. On July 14, 1778, he was cited to appear before 
the Commissioners of Conspiracies to render satisfac- 
tion regarding his conduct during the war, conformable 
to the act respecting persons of neutral or equivocal char- 
acters. On July 17 he refused to take the Oath of Alle- 
giance, and on July 18 was ordered to hold himself in 
readiness to be removed to within the enemy's lines. On 
August 1 he expressed a willingness to take the Oath but 
was not permitted to do so, as the Act did not permit of 
the Oath being administered to one who had once refused 
to take it. He was ordered to appear on August 14 ready 
for deportation. On May 24, 1779, the Oath of Allegiance 
was administered to him in accordance with the amended 
Act. 

VisscHER, John, Jr. : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Vrooman, Abraham : Bom in 1761 ; died February 5, 1815. 
He is buried in the old Vrooman Cemetery on the Bar- 
tholomew Vrooman farm, Albany Road. The graves are 
on a knoll in a small grove of evergreen trees surrounded 
by a fence. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 261 

Albany County Militia and the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights. 

Vrooman, Adam : Born in Schenectady, May 25, 1760. In 
October, 1776, he enlisted under Captain John Mynderse, 
2d Albany County Militia, and served to the end of the 
war, during the first part as a corporal and for more than 
two years as a sergeant. In the summer of 1777 he was 
with the Northern Army during Schuyler's retreat, 
actively engaged in the battle of Snookkill, in the battle 
of September 19 and in several other skirmishes. He 
remained on duty until after the surrender of Burgoyne. 
In 1778 he performed garrison duty at Caughnawaga, 
Palatine, Fort Paris and Fort Plank, one month at each 
place except at Fort Plank, where he remained two months. 
He mounted guard at the three forts in Schoharie both 
before and after the destruction of the Schoharie settle- 
ments ; also at Cobleskill and Brakabeen, In October, 1781, 
he marched to Johnstown. On numerous occasions he 
served as a scout and spy, and when not out on expeditions 
performed guard duty at Schenectady. A pensioner under 
the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Vrooman, Adam S. : Baptized March 5, 1754 ; died August 
3, 1808. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Vrooman, Arent: Bom June 14, 1758; died February 18, 
1814. He served under Captain Thomas Brower Banker, 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Vrooman, Barent: Born December 24, 1725; died Novem- 
ber 16, 1784. He was pastor of the First Dutch Church 
during the Revolution. 

Vrooman, Cornelius: Bom February 4, 1722; died in 
1806. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany 
County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 



262 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Vbooman, David: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Vrooman, Hendrick : Bom October 23, 1757 ; died Janu- 
ary 30, 1813. He is buried in the old Vrooman Cemetery 
on the Bartholomew Vrooman farm, Albany Road. The 
graves are on a knoll in a small grove of evergreen trees 
surrounded by a fence. His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Vrooman, Isaac: Bom November 13, 1712; died June 1, 
1807. He had a farm at the Brandywine Mills. On May 
7, 1776, he was elected a member of the third Committee 
of Safety. He was also a member of the fourth Commit- 
tee and on March 3, 1777, was elected a member of the 
fifth Committee of Safety. On April 1, 1777, he was 
elected a supervisor. In 1779 he was a member of Assem- 
bly under the first State Constitution. 

Vrooman, Jacob A. : Baptized December 30, 1747 ; died 
in Glenville, July 21, 1831. On March 1, 1776, he signed 
an agreement with Philip Schuyler for service at Lake 
George and Ticonderoga. 

Vrooman, Jacob I. : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Vrooman, Jacob J. : Baptized March 30, 1755. He inher- 
ited his father's farm three and one half miles south of 
Schenectady. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Vrooman, Jacob S. : Baptized November 13, 1723. A car- 
penter. In 1775 a company under his command served 
at Ticonderoga and vicinity, building boats preparatory 
for the American invasion of Canada. On March 1, 1776, 
he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler as an over- 
seer of a company of carpenters for service at Lake George 
and Ticonderoga. In March, 1778, he commanded a com- 
pany which marched to Saratoga and remained there 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 263 

throughout the season, building boats and rebuilding Gen- 
eral Schuyler's house and mills which had been burned by 
the British the year previous. His name appears on the 
rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Vrooman, John B. : Baptized January 13, 1745. On Octo- 
ber 20, 1775, he was commissioned ensign in the 4th Com- 
pany, 2d Albany County Militia. On November 22 he 
received a commission as first lieutenant from the Provin- 
cial Congress, and on February 10, 1776, was assigned to 
Captain Thomas Brower Banker's company. In the spring 
he was in command of a detail for the apprehension of 
Tories at the Heldebergh. On April 1, 1777, he was elected 
overseer of highways at Schenectady. On June 20, 1778, 
he was reappointed first lieutenant in Captain Banker's 
company. On June 15, 1779, he was elected a member of 
the Committee of Safety. In the summer he commanded 
a detachment of militia and Oneida Indians to Schoharie 
to capture a party of runaway Tuscarora Indians. In 
September or October he served at Fort Plank and Stone 
Arabia, and in the fall of 1780 marched to Ballston in 
pursuit of the enemy after the raid. 

Vrooman, John J. : Born in the Schenectady Township, 
April 5, 1763. In the spring of 1779 he enlisted under 
Captain John Mynderse, 2d Albany County Militia, and 
in the fall of that year was on duty at Fort Paris. He 
also acted as captain of the guard at Schenectady. From 
January 1 to December 24, 1780, he served in a company 
of batteau and fatigue men under Captain Joseph Peek. 
At various times he served under Colonels Dayton, Van 
Dyck and Gansevoort. A pensioner. 

Vrooman, John T. : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Vrooman, Lawrence: Born in Schenectady, July 26, 1757. 
In 1775 he enlisted under Captain Jellis J. Fonda, 2d 
Albany County Militia, and served as a private until 



264 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



1778 when lie was promoted to the rank of ensign. He 
did not, however, receive a regular commission until Feb- 
ruary 25, 1780. In the fall of 1776 he marched to Still- 
water, thence to Fort Ann, remaining some time on duty 
at each place. From Fort Ann he proceeded down the 
"Wood Creek to Skenesborough as a guard for provision 
boats. From September 27, 1777, until a few days before 
Burgoyne 's surrender, when he was taken sick and obliged 
to return home, he served with the Northern Army. In 
the fall of the same year he was appointed a deputy com- 
missary of the Northern Department to purchase hospital 
supplies, and served in this capacity until April, 1778. 
During the year 1778 he performed garrison duty at Fort 
Paris, and was at one of the Schoharie Forts when Cobles- 
kill was destroyed. He was at Fort Plain and Fort Plank 
when the Indians and Tories raided that section, and 
when the alarm gun was fired at Fort Plain he was one 
of the men who went in front of the cannon for the relief. 
In October, 1781, he was on duty at Canajoharie when 
Walter Butler was killed. He was spoken of as " a valiant 
officer. ' ' He died before his claim for pension was granted 
and his son's application was rejected. 

Vrooman, Nicholas: On August 12, 1777, he was arrested 
and sent to Albany as implicated in a Tory plot. 

Vrooman, Simon J. : Bom in Schenectady, August 3, 1760 ; 
died November 10, 1841. He removed from Schenectady 
in 1787. In March, 1777, he entered the service in the 
the Quartermaster's Department under Lieutenant-Colonel 
Christopher Yates, being stationed at Fort Ann. He was in 
active service during Schuyler's retreat, in the battle of 
Bemis Heights and with the troops under General Arnold 
to the relief of Fort Stanwix. In March or April, 1778, 
he performed three months' service at Schuyler's Farms, 
building boats, and in August of the same year he enrolled 
in the company of Captain John Mynderse. He was sta- 
tioned three months at Fort Paris, In June, 1779, under 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 265 

Lieutenant-Colonel Christopher Yates he went to Tioga 
Point with the boats conveying baggage and ammunition 
for General Clinton's division. He was afterwards sta- 
tioned six weeks with Captain John Mynderse's company 
at Fort Herkimer. In August, 1780, he was commissioned 
a subaltern by the Council of Appointment and assigned to 
the company of Captain John Burnett, Colonel Lewis 
Dubois's Levies. He performed guard duty at Fishkill, 
Dobbs Ferry and later at Fort Plain, and on the approach 
of Sir John Johnson was sent as an express to Schenectady, 
returning to the fort on the third day. He was in the 
engagement at Stone Arabia when Colonel Brown was 
killed, and in the second action after the arrival of Gen- 
eral Van Rensselaer. He went in pursuit of the enemy 
as far as Fort Herkimer, remaining there six weeks until 
relieved by the Regulars, when he returned to Schenec- 
tady. In April, 1781, he was commissioned a subaltern 
and assigned to the company of Captain John Gross, 
Colonel Willett's Levies. He was stationed at Fort Plain, 
and in July took part in the engagement known as the 
battle of Torlock, in which Captain Robert McKean was 
killed. He went in pursuit of the enemy after the destruc- 
tion of Warren 's Bush, was in the battle of Johnstown and 
joined in the pursuit of the enemy after the battle. His 
widow stated that at the close of the war Vrooman held a 
commission as lieutenant. A pensioner. 

Vrooman, "Walter : On June 20, 1778, he was commissioned 
first lieutenant in Captain Jesse Van Slyck's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. In September he was on garrison 
duty at the Middle Fort, Schoharie. In 1779 he was serv- 
ing as a lieutenant in the Levies. From August to Novem- 
ber he commanded a company at Schoharie mustered at 
Schenectady and attached to Colonel Butler's regiment. 
On October 23, 1780, while serving as a lieutenant in 
Colonel Harper's Levies, he was taken prisoner by forces 



266 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

under Sir John Johnson and Joseph Brant and removed 
to Canada, where he was held until the end of the war. 

Waggerman, George: On January 22, 1777, he enlisted in 
Captain John A. Bradt's company of State Rangers, and 
on March 26 enlisted for the war and was assigned to 
Captain Leonard Bleecker's company, 3d New York Line. 

Waggerman, Michael: His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Wagner, Andrew: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Wagner, Michael: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Wagner, Nicholas: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Ward, Christopher: Bom at Stone Arabia, July 18, 1757; 
died November 13, 1838. Buried in Vale Cemetery. He 
lived in Schenectady during and after the war. In Janu- 
ary, 1776, he was enrolled in Captain Abraham Oothout's 
company, 2d Albany County Militia. He took part in 
the expedition to Johnstown, and in the fall of the same 
year was on guard at Johnstown and Switzerbergh. In 
the spring of 1777 he was drafted under Captain Jesse 
Van Slyck and marched to Jessup's Patent. This same 
year he served during Schuyler's retreat, at Saratoga, 
Stillwater and Bemis Heights, part of the time as a sub- 
stitute for Harmon Peters. From March to July 18, 1778, 
he served as a blacksmith in the Continental Army; he 
then enlisted and served three months in Captain Thomas 
Patten's company of artificers. With this company he 
went to Albany, Fishkill, Fredericksburg, White Plains and 
Dover. In the fall of this same year he went with a detach- 
ment from Colonel Wemple's regiment towards Cherry 
Valley. From January to May 1, 1779, he served in a 
company of artificers under Captain John Clute, and in the 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 267 

spring of 1780 performed three weeks' duty at Schoharie. 
In the summer of this same year he enlisted in Captain 
James MeGee's company, Colonel Morris Graham's Levies. 
When Stone Arabia was raided by Sir John Johnson 
(August, 1780) he was on duty at Fort Herkimer. A 
pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

"Warn, Richard: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

"Warn, Samuel : On March 1, 1776, he signed an agreement 
with Philip Schuyler for service at Lake George and 
Ticonderoga. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Wasson, James: In May, 1782, he enlisted in Captain Guy 
Young's company. Colonel Marinus Willett's Levies. 

Wasson, John: Born in the Schenectady Township, Janu- 
ary 6, 1764. He was living in Princetown when, about 
July 25, 1780, he enlisted under Captain Jacob John Lan- 
sing, Colonel Morris Graham's Levies. He marched to 
West Point and there performed garrison duty about 
three weeks, then to Dobbs Ferry, where he remained one 
week, then to Albany, where the regiment was divided. 
His detachment marched to the Middle Fort, Schoharie. 
He was in the fort when Sir John Johnson attacked it and 
was with the troops that subsequently pursued the enemy. 
From April, 1781, to January, 1782, he served under 
Captain Stephen White, Colonel Willett's Levies. He vol- 
unteered with a party of twenty-eight Indians and white 
men for scout duty to Crown Point. From March to Octo- 
ber, 1782, he served under Captain Guy Young, and then 
enlisted under Captain Jellis A. Fonda, Colonel Willett's 
Levies, and served three months when he was discharged 
from the service. He was in the battle of Johnstown and 
in an engagement with the enemy at Lake Schuyler in 
1782. A pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 



268 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

"Wasson, Thomas: Lived in Princetown. On September 7, 
1775, the Committee of Safety applied to the Albany- 
Committee to assign him a commission as captain of militia, 
and on October 20 he was commissioned captain of the 5th 
Company, 2d Albany County Militia. He was reappointed 
on June 20, 1778. 

Wasson, Thomas J. : His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Watson, Alexander: His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

Weller, Frederick: Born at Walkill, December 5, 1757. 
In the fall of 1775, when he enrolled under Captain Abra- 
ham Oothout, 2d Albany County Militia, as a sergeant, 
he was living in Princetown and here he continued to live 
for about five years after the war. He was drafted for 
the Canadian expedition. He marched to Fort Edward 
and Skenesborough but was ordered home after eight 
weeks' service on the news of the death of General Mont- 
gomery. In the spring of 1777 he went with a body of 
Vermont militia to destroy a blockhouse at Jessup's 
Patent. When Burgoyne invested Ticonderoga he was 
again called to Fort Edward. He was in General Schuy- 
ler's retreat but a few days before the battle of Bemis 
Heights was taken with measles and obliged to return 
home. When he recovered his health he performed fatigue 
duty under Henry Glen in transporting effects for the army 
from Schenectady to Albany. He served on various occa- 
sions at the Schoharie Forts and Fort Plain. On July 
23, 1780, he was sent to Albany under arrest as being con- 
cerned in a plot to join the enemy or of supplying them 
with provisions. He was, however, on August 10 released 
on bail. He served when Ballston was attacked and with 
the troops in pursuit of Sir John Johnson, following the 
destruction of the Mohawk settlements. In the fall of 
1781 he was at Fort Hunter during the battle of Johnstown, 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 269 

where the troops with which he served were detailed to 
guard prisoners. A pensioner. 

Weller, Robert: He served as a private and as a sergeant 
in the 2d Albany County Militia. 

"Welsh, John: On May 31, 1775, some of the soldiers of 
Captain Cornelius Van Dyck's company were boarded at 
his house while the company was being recruited and 
drilled. 

Wemple, Abraham : Born about 1728 ; died near Albany in 
1799. On September 7, 1775, the Committee of Safety 
applied to the Albany Committee to assign him a com- 
mission as captain of militia. On October 5 he was recom- 
mended to the Provincial Congress for the office of colonel 
among the field officers to be assigned to the 2d Albany 
County Militia, and on October 20 he was commissioned 
colonel, being reappointed on June 20, 1778, and serving 
in this capacity until near the end of the war, when he 
resigned from the service. On November 7, 1775, he was 
elected a member of the second Committee of Safety and on 
December 29 was appointed deputy chairman of the Board. 
On July 26, 1779, he was again elected a member of the 
Committee. Colonel Wemple served with his regiment on 
the various occasions when called out and was throughout 
the war a zealous and active adherent of the American cause. 

Wemple, Barent ("Wemp, Barnabas) : Baptized in Sche- 
nectady September 3, 1738; buried December 27, 1843. 
On April 11, 1776, he enlisted under Captain Gerrit S. 
Veeder, Colonel Cornelius D. Wynkoop's regiment. On 
December 28 (probably 1776) he enlisted for the war 
under Captain John Copp, 1st New York Line. In June, 
1778, he was reported as "absent without leave and sup- 
posed to be sick. ' ' On his company roll covering the period 
from July to December, 1778, he was reported as "sick at 
Prince Town." The roll for January and February, 
1780, reported him "transfered to Corps of Invalids." 



270 EI8T0RY OF SCHENECTADY 

During the latter part of the war he became a Loyalist and 
fled from the Mohawk Valley to Canada leaving behind 
land and other property. 

"Wemple, John: Bom at Fort Hunter, October 15, 1749. 
He was living in Schenectady in 1775 when he enrolled 
under Captain John Mynderse, 2d Albany County Militia. 
In January, 1776, he took part in the expedition to Johns- 
town. In the fall of 1776 he served at Skenesborough and 
Fort Ann for the purpose of guarding boats. In the 
spring of 1777 he went to Jessup's Patent in pursuit of 
Tories. He served five months during the campaign against 
Burgoyne, taking part in the battle of Snookkill. He was 
at Ballston in 1780 when it was burned and at "Warren's 
Bush in 1781 under Colonel Willett. He performed con- 
siderable guard and garrison duty at Fort Plain, Fort 
Plank, Fort Paris and at the Schoharie Forts. A pensioner 
under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Wemple, John J. : He served as a sergeant under Captain 
Thomas Brower Banker, 2d Albany County Militia. 

Wemple, John R. : Born April 18, 1732 ; died September 
14, 1814. He served as a private and as a sergeant in the 
2d Albany County Militia. On May 20, 1777, he testified 
before the Committee of Safety that his shoulder had been 
put out of joint and that he was therefore unfit for military 
duty. 

Wemple, John T. : His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Wemple, Myndert: Born December 26, 1737; died Decem- 
ber 18, 1821. His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Wemple, Myndert A.: Baptized February 9, 1753; died 
November 10, 1804. On May 27, 1775, he was appointed 
second lieutenant in Captain Jellis J. Fonda's company, 
2d Albany County Militia. On July 10 he refused an 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 271 

offer of a recruiting warrant from the Provincial Congress, 
and on June 20, 1778, was reappointed second lieutenant. 
On February 25, 1780, he was promoted to the rank of 
first lieutenant and assigned to the company of Captain 
John Mynderse. 

"Wemple, Myndert M. : Baptized November 20, 1738 ; died 
in 1789. On May 15, 1776, he was delegated to collect 
wagons to carry provisions from Albany to Lake George. 
On April 25, 1777, he was appointed chairman pro tempore 
of the Committee of Safety. On June 20, 1778, he was 
commissioned second major of the 2d Albany County Mili- 
tia to succeed Nicholas Veeder. In September or October, 
1779, he commanded a detachment to Fort Plank and Stone 
Arabia. 

Wemple, Myndert R. : Bom September 30, 1742. He 
served as an ensign in the 2d Albany County Militia. In 
1777 he is mentioned as captain of a company of batteau- 

s 

men performing service in transporting provisions and 
stores for the troops on the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers. 

Wemple, Ryer: Baptized October 17, 1703; died in 1796. 
His name appears on the rolls of the 2d Albany County 
Militia, Land Bounty Rights. 

Wendell, Harmanus H. : Died previous to March 2, 1777. 
A merchant. He was a member of the fourth Committee 
of Safety. 

"Wendell, John Baptist: Born March 6, 1732. On March 
1, 1776, he signed an agreement with Philip Schuyler for 
service at Lake George and Ticonderoga. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia as serving 
under Captain John Van Patten. 

Wendle, Ahasueras: Born in Schenectady, December 21, 
1755; died February 22, 1848. On May 6, 1775, he was 
chosen a member of the first Committee of Safety. He 



272 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

served also on the second and third Committees. On May 
27, together with Henry Glen, he was delegated by the 
Committee to go to Johnstown to inquire into the cause 
of the disturbances arising over the Sheriff White inci- 
dent. On July 10, 1775, he was recommended to the Pro- 
vincial Congress for the position of second lieutenant in 
the recruiting service. In the fall of 1775 he was enrolled 
in the company of Captain John Van Patten and in this 
company he served to the end of the war. In January, 
1776, he took part in the expedition to Johnstown. On 
February 28, 1776, he refused to accept from General 
Schuyler a recruiting warrant with rank of ensign. On 
May 13, 1776, General Schuyler was requested to send him 
back from Lake George for the reason that he was em- 
ployed in the Continental service without having signed 
the General Association. From June to October, 1777, he 
was on duty at Fort Edward and other forts in the vicin- 
ity. He was in command of a detachment at the battle of 
Bemis Heights, two of the officers being unfit for duty. In 
the fall of 1780 he marched with the militia under General 
Van Rensselaer in pursuit of Sir John Johnson, and in 
the fall of 1781 was with the troops under Colonel Willett 
in pursuit of Major Ross and Butler. A pensioner under 
the Act of June 7, 1832. 

Wessel, Arent : Baptized June 17, 1752. His name appears 
on the rolls of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Wessel, Harmanus: Born in 1754; died March 10, 1813. 
Buried in Vale Cemetery. His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Wheaton, Reuben: Bom in the Schenectady Township in 
September, 1763. In the spring of 1778 he was enrolled 
under Captain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d Albany County Militia. 
He served to the end of the war, performing considerable 
guard and scout duty. In August, 1780, he served at 
Fort Plank and Fort Plain, and in 1781 was on duty when 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 273 

Major Ross and Butler descended on the settlements. A 
pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832. 

"Wheaton, Thomas: He served as a sergeant under Cap- 
tain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d Albany County Militia. In May, 
1779, he was in command of a detail for scout duty to 
Sacandaga, Fish House and Mayfield, and in September 
to Sacandaga and Johnstown. In June, 1780, he was 
second in command of a detail to Beaverdam and Harpers- 
field, and in September in command of a detail for scout 
duty to Sacandaga and Mayfield. In May, 1781, he went 
on scout duty to Glens Falls. 

"White, William: He lived on Church Street. At his 
house on May 9, 1775, was held the first meeting of the 
Committee of Safety, as well as several subsequent meet- 
ings and the election of members for the third Committee 
on May 7, 1776. On June 27, 1775, in order to show the 
friendly disposition of the Board, five Oneida Indians were 
ordered entertained at his house during their stay in town. 
On July 26, 1779, he was elected a member of the Com- 
mittee of Safety. His name appears on the rolls of the 
2d Albany County Militia. 

WiEST, Conrad: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Wiley, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia and the 2d Albany County Militia, 
Land Bounty Rights, 

Williams, Cornelius: His name appears on the rolls of 
the 2d Albany County Militia. In 1778 he was enrolled 
under Captain Jesse Van Slyck. In August, 1782, he was 
on garrison duty at the Upper Fort, Schoharie. 

Williams, Jacob: In 1778 he was serving as a sergeant 
under Captain Jesse Van Slyck, 2d Albany County Militia. 
In June he commanded a detail to Cobleskill, and in 



574 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

August, 1782, was on garrison duty at the Upper Fort, 
Schoharie. 

Williams, William, 2d: He served as a private in the 
New York Line. A pensioner under the Act of March 18, 
1818. 

Wilson, James: A merchant. On May 6, 1775, he was 
elected a member of the first Committee of Safety. He 
served also on the second Committee, on the Committee 
taking office June 2, 1777, and as clerk of the Committee 
taking office January 5, 1778. He was a deputy for the 
election of representatives to the first Provincial Congress. 

WiNNE, Anthony: On August 12, 1777, he was arrested 
and sent to Albany as implicated in a Tory plot. He was, 
however, at once released by the Albany Committee. 

Wood, James: Bom in 1760; died February 11, 1827. On 
June 8, 1780, he enlisted for the war under Captain Philip 
de Bevier, 5th New York Line. He was subsequently 
selected from his company to serve in the Light Infantry 
under the Marquis de Lafayette and was attached to Cap- 
tain Aaron Austin's company, 3d New York Line. Later 
in the year he was transferred to a company under Cap- 
tain Leonard Bleecker. In the fall of 1780 he returned to 
go into winter quarters and was attached to the company 
of Captain John F. Hamtramck, 2d New York Line. In 
1782 "when the infantry went south" he was left sick 
in Albany. On his recovery he was attached to the com- 
pany of Captain Henry Du Bois, 2d New York Line, and 
in this company he remained until peace was declared. 
On his discharge he was honored with the badge of merit. 
A pensioner under the Act of March 18, 1818. 

Wood, John: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Wright, John : He lived in Schenectady at the time of the 
Revolution and died here. He served as a private in the 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 275 

2d Dutchess County Militia under Colonel Abraham 
Brinckerhoff in the company commanded by Captain 
Nicholas Brower. 

Yates, Abraham : Born in Schenectady, February 27, 1757, 
He served as a private and as a corporal in the 2d Albany 
County Militia. 

Yates, Christopher: Bom July 8, 1737, at the old home- 
stead in Alplaus ; died September 1, 1785. Buried in Vale 
Cemetery. During the Revolution he lived in the house 
built by himself now No. 26 Front Street. In this house 
was born his son, Joseph C, first mayor of Schenec- 
tady (1798) and governor of New York State (1823- 
1824). Christopher Yates was a surveyor by profession 
and "one of the best informed and most efficient patriots 
in the Mohawk Valley." On May 6, 1775, he was elected 
a member of the first Committee of Safety and at the first 
meeting on the ninth was chosen chairman of the Board. 
On May 24 he was appointed one of a committee to go to 
Guy Park to deliver an answer to a speech made by the 
Mohawk Indians. On June 30 he was appointed by the 
Provincial Congress one of a committee to determine the. 
ranks of the various officers serving in the New York regi- 
ments. On July 26 a letter was addressed to him by the 
Committee asking whether or not he had resigned from 
the Board, and on August 9 he tendered his resignation. 
On November 7 he was elected a member of the second 
Committee of Safety, and on December 29, was appointed 
deputy clerk of the Board. On January 13, 1776, he was 
appointed lieutenant-colonel of the 2d Albany County 
Militia, and on March 5 Henry Glen was instructed to 
apply to Congress for his commission. On May 7, 1776, 
he was elected a member of the third Committee of Safety. 
From the fall of 1776 to July 8, 1777, he was in command 
when detachments of the regiment were on duty at Fort 
Ann. It is claimed that about this time Yates served on 



276 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

the staff of General Schuyler as a deputy quartermaster- 
general and that he was afterwards promoted to the rank 
of colonel. The evidence to support this claim is contained 
in letters from General Schuyler, Benedict Arnold, 
Governor Morgan Lewis, etc., which were at one time in 
the possession of Judge A. A. Yates of this city. No evi- 
dence of this detail and appointment is to be found on the 
regimental rolls. After the evacuation of Fort Ann (July 
8) he had command of a body of Schenectady militia 
engaged in felling trees to stop the progress of General 
Burgoyne's army. He served throughout the campaign 
and with General Arnold selected the American position 
at Bemis Heights. On October 19 he was appointed by 
the State Committee of Safety one of a committee to repair 
to Albany to confer with General Philip Schuyler regard- 
ing means for checking the advance of the enemy on the 
northern and western frontiers. He served during the 
rest of the war in the Quartermaster's Department as a 
deputy, for the most part of the time stationed at Sara- 
toga. In June, 1779, he was engaged in forwarding the 
baggage of General Clinton's brigade. 

Yates, Jellis: Born March 27, 1744; died in Glenville, 
November 13, 1812. On June 20, 1778, he was commis- 
sioned first lieutenant in Captain Abraham Van Eps's 
company, 2d Albany County Militia. In August, 1778, 
and again in October, 1779, he was on garrison duty at 
Fort Plank, and in the fall of 1780 at Caughnawaga. 

Yates, John : Born June 12, 1760 ; died December 19, 1826. 
Buried in Vale Cemetery. His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Yates, Nicholas: On October 20, 1775, he was commis- 
sioned ensign in Captain Jellis J. Fonda's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia, and was reappointed June 20, 
1778. On February 25, 1780, he was promoted to the 
rank of first lieutenant and served as such to the end of 



INDIVIDUAL RECORDS OF SERVICE 277 

the war. In July, 1778, he was in command of a scout to 
Ballston and Galway, on which occasion he took four pris- 
oners. During the year 1780 he was twice on duty at Fort 
Hunter. 

Young, Benjamin: On February 10, 1776, he was elected 
ensign in Captain Thomas Brower Banker's company, 2d 
Albany County Militia. On July 11 he was elected a 
member of the Committee of Safety and on July 14, 1777, 
appointed to command a body of militia to assist in impress- 
ing wagons for the service. He is also spoken of as having 
served as a lieutenant under Captain Banker. 

Young, Calvin: On December 27, 1777, he was fined for 
buying clothes of a soldier. His name appears on the rolls 
of the 2d Albany County Militia. 

Young, Frederic: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 

Young, Guy: On June 28, 1775, he was appointed a second 
lieutenant in the 2d New York Line and was promoted to 
the rank of first lieutenant on February 16, 1776. He was 
subsequently transferred to the 1st New York Line, and 
on March 26, 1777, was serving as a captain lieutenant. 
From July 14, 1779, to January 1, 1781, when he was 
retired, he held the rank of captain. He subsequently 
served as a captain in the Levies under Colonel Marinus 
Willett. 

Young, Seth: His name appears on the rolls of the 2d 
Albany County Militia. 



MANUSCRIPT SOUECES 

Documents, muster rolls, letters, etc., in the possession of the 
author. 

Journal of Jabez Maud Fisher, a copy of which is to be found 
in the Herkimer County Historical Society. 

Letter Books of Colonel Hugh Hughes. The New York His- 
torical Society. 

Journal of the expedition to Canada in 1775, kept by Colonel 
Henry B. Livingston. 

Minutes of the Proceedings of the Committee for the City 
and County of Albany. New York State Library, Albany, 
N. Y. 

Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety from Janu- 
ary 15, 1777, to February 17, 1778. Force Collection, 
Manuscript Division, Library of Congress, "Washington, 
D. C. 

Minutes of the Schenectady Committee of Safety from June 
15, 1779, to August 15, 1779. From a copy in the possession 
of Mr. E. Z. Carpenter. 

Papers of the Continental Congress. Library of Congress, 
Washington, D. C. 

Pension Office Records. 

Records of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Wash- 
ington, D. C. 

Records of St. George's Lodge as contained in a paper en- 
titled, "St. George's Lodge in the Revolution," written by 
Mr. Hanford Robison. 



280 HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 

Transcripts of the Loyalist Papers in the British Museum. 
New York Public Library, New York City. 

Trumbull Papers. Massachusetts Historical Society. 

Washington Papers. Manuscript Division, Library of Con- 
gress, "Washington, D. C. 



BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Bloodgood, S. de Witt. The Sexagenary: or Reminiscences 
of the American Revolution. 1866. 

Campbell, Douglas. Central New York in the Revolution, 
New York, 1878. 

Campbell, William W. Annals of Tryon County. New York, 
1831. 

Chastellux, Francis Jean. Travels in North America in the 
years 1780, 1781 and 1782. London, 1787. 

Cook, Frederick. Journals of the Military Expedition of 
Major John Sullivan against the Six Nations of Indians 
in 1779. Auburn, 1887. 

Flick, Alexander C. Loyalism in New York during the 
American Revolution. 1901. 

Gardner, Asa Bird. The New York Continental Line of the 
Army of the Revolution. Magazine of American History, 
December, 1881. 

Halsey, Francis Whiting. The Old New York Frontier. 1901. 

Hanson, James Howard. The Minute Book of the Committee 
of Safety of Tryon County. New York, 1905. 

Heitman, Francis B. Historical Register of Officers of the 
Continental Army during the War of the Revolution. 
Washington, D. C, 1914. 

Hough, Franklin B. The Northern Invasion of October, 1780. 
Bradford Club Series. 1866. 

Howell and Tenney. History of Albany and Schenectady 
Counties. New York, 1886. 



282 BISTORT OF SCHENECTADY 

Jones, Charles Henry. History of the Campaign for the Con- 
quest of Canada in 1776. Philadelphia, 1882. 

Mahan, A. T. The Major Operations of the Navies in the 
War of American Independence. 1913. 

Morgan, Lewis H. League of the Ho-de-no-sau-nee or Iro- 
quois. New York, 1901. 

Pearson, Professor Jonathan. Contributions for the Gene- 
alogies of the Descendants of the First Settlers of the 
Patent and City of Schenectady. Albany, 1873. 

Pearson, Professor Jonathan. A History of the Schenectady 
Patent. Albany, 1883. 

Roberts, James. New York in the Revolution. Albany, 1898. 

Sanders, Honorable John. Centennial Address relating to 
the Early History of Schenectady and its First Settlers. 
Albany, 1879. 

Schermerhorn, Richard, Jr. Schermerhorn Genealogy and 
Family Chronicles. New York, 1914, 

Simms, Jeptha R. The Frontiersmen of New York. Albany, 

1882. 

Smith, Richard. A Tour of Four Great Rivers. Being the 
Journal of Richard Smith. New York, 1906. 

Stone, William L. Life of Joseph Brant. Albany, 1864. 

Stone, William L. The Life and Times of Sir William John- 
son, Bart. Albany, 1865. 

Stone, William L. Orderly Book of Sir John Johnson during 
the Oriskany Campaign. Albany, 1882. 

Yates, Austin A. Schenectady County, New York. Its His- 
tory to the Close of the Nineteenth Century. 1902. 

American Archives, 4th Series. 

The American Historian and Quarterly Genealogical Record. 

Edited by the Historical Society. Schenectady, 1875- 

1876. Vol. I, Nos. 1-4 (all published). 



BIBLIOGRAPHY 283 

The American Monthly Magazine. April, 1902, 

Calendar of Historical Manuscripts, relating to the War of 
the Revolution in the office of the Secretary of State. 
Albany, 1868. 

Census of Pensioners for Revolutionary or Military Services 
as returned under the Act for taking the 6th Census in 
1840. Washington, 1841. 

Documents Relating to the Colonial History of New York. 
Vols. VIII and X. Albany, 1857. 

Journals of the American Congress. Washington, 1823. 

Documents Relating to the Colonial History of the State of 
New York. Edited by Berthold Femow. Vol. XV. State 
Archives, Vol. I. Albany, 1887. 

Early Schenectady Cemetery Records. Being a corrected 
list of inscriptions on tombstones taken from the burial 
ground between Front and Green Streets in 1879. Com- 
piled by Charlotte T. Luckhurst. 

Minutes of the Commissioners for Detecting and Defeating 
Conspiracies in the State of New York. Published by the 
State. 1909. 

The New York Genealogical and Biographical Record. 

Orderly Book of the Northern Army at Ticonderoga and Mt. 
Independence. Albany, 1859. 

Public Papers of George Clinton, First Governor of New 
York. Published by the State. 1899. 

Records from Family Cemeteries near Schenectady. Col- 
lected by William A. Brinkman and arranged by Char- 
lotte T. Luckhurst. 

Report of the Secretary of War in Relation to the Pensions 
Establishment of the United States. Washington, 1835. 



284 • HISTORY OF SCHENECTADY 



A true copy of all the Members recorded in the First Re- 
formed Dutch Church of Schenectady, N. Y., from April 
11, 1694, to September 22, 1839. Compiled by Charlotte 
T. Luckhurst. 

United States Census. 1890. 



INDEX 



INDEX 



Aalplaats, the: 61. 

Academy built by Dutch Eeformed 
Church: 125. 

Adams, William: 129. 

Albany: sends troops to Ticon- 
deroga and Crown Point, 23; 
council with Indians held at, 44; 
concentration center for accused 
Loyalists, 59; British forces to 
converge upon, 64; watch estab- 
lished, 66; in panic, 72, 108, 
119; aid solicited for victims of 
fire in Schenectady, 78; com- 
plaint of partiality shown to 
citizens of, 81; alarmed by news 
of attack on Cobleskill, 85; 
threatened from Ticonderoga, 
116; rumors of attack continue 
after Yorktown, 121. 

Albany County: just treatment of 
Loyalists, 59; their obnoxious 
attitude after failure of Cana- 
dian expedition, 61; Tories go 
over to enemy, 97. 

Albany Sons of Liberty: 11. 

Alexander, Alexander: 129. 

Alexander, Eobert: 129. 

Alexander, Sandy: 129. 

Allen, Ethan: takes Fort Ticon- 
deroga, 23. 

Ament, Eldert: 129. 

American Historian and Quarterly 
Genealogical Eecord: 18. 

American flotilla on Lake Cham- 
plain: 55. 

Andrews, Eeverend William: 7. 

Andrustown: 87. 

Arnold, Benedict: retreat from 
Canada, 55; siege of Port Stan- 



wix raised at approach of, 75; 
deprives Burgoyne of reinforce- 
ments, 76; plot to surrender 
West Point, 103; burned in 
effigy at Schenectady, 123. 

Articles of Association: signed by 
Continental Congress, 17; paper 
reopened for signature, 57; re- 
fusal to sign cause for seizure, 
58; Loyalists forced to sign, 60; 
certificates of character refused 
those who had not signed, 60. 

"Associated Exempts": 87, 94. 

Association, General: see Articles 
of Association. 

Ballston: 66, 107; raid on, 102. 

Banker, Thomas Brower: 31, 33, 
129. 

Barclay, James: 130. 

Barhydt, Cornelius: 131. 

Barhydt, Jacob: 131. 

Barhydt, James: 131. 

Barhydt, Jerone: 131. 

Barhydt, John: 132. 

Barhydt, Lewis: 132. 

Barhydt, Nicholas: 33, 132. 

Barhydt, Teunis: 133. 

Barracks at Schenectady: erected, 
62; site of, 63; converted into 
hospital, 80; Oneida Indians 
quartered in, 110. 

Bartley, Daniel: 133. 

Bartley, Michael: 133. 

Bastian, John : 133. 

Bates, David: 53, 133. 

Batteaux: description of, 6; diffi- 
culty of building, 117. 

Bearup, Andrew: 133. 



288 



INDEX 



Bearup, John: 134. 




Bradt, Ephraim: 137. 


Bearup, Thomas: 134. 




Bradt, Frederick: 137. 


Beaverdam: expedition to appre- 


Bradt, Gerrit: 138. 


hend Tories at, 84; many Tories 

assembled at, 97. 
Becker, Gerrit: 134. 
Becker, John: 104. 
Beekman, Jacob: 134. 
Bellinger, Frederick: 43. 
Bemis Heights: battle of, 72. 
Bennington, Vermont: defeat of 


Bradt, Jacobus: 138. 

Bradt, Jacobus S.: 138. 

Bradt, John A.: 53, 58, 61, 138. 


Bradt, John S.: 139. 
Bradt, Mindert: 139. 
Bradt, Samuel: 139. 
Bradt, Samuel S.: 139. 


Colonel Baum at, 76. 




Bradt 's Eangers: 34, 61. 


Berkin, William: 134. 




Bragham, John: 139. 


Bestedo, Clara: 134. 




Bragham, Joseph: 139. 


Beth, Jellis: 134. 




Bragham, Simon: 139. 


Beth, Eobert: 134. 




Brakeabean : 85. 


Beth, Thomas: 135. 




Brant, Joseph: 40; joins Indians 


"Blues," The: 32. 




at Oghwaga, 65; attack upon 


Board of War, Philadelphia 


: dis- 


Cobleskill, 84; raids on Spring- 


continues Schenectady as 


army 


field, Andrustown and German 


post, 102. 




Flats, 87; raid on Harpersfield, 


Boat building: important industry, 


95; feint before Fort Schuyler 


6; on Lake George and 


Lake 


and attack on Canajoharie, 98, 


Champlain, 51. 




99; attack on Schoharie, 99; 


Boice (Buys), Abraham: 135. 


raid on Schoharie settlements, 


Boice (Buys), James: 135. 




102. 


Bond, Eiehard: 135. 




Brant, Molly: 40. 


Bonny, Ichabod: 135. 




British, the: success around New 


Bonny, John: 135. 




York, 61; Indians cast their lot 


Bovie, Abraham: 135. 




with, 83; emissaries stir up mu- 


Bovie, Isaac: 135. 




tinies in American ranks, 97; 


Bovie, Israel: 135. 




pardon for those assisting, 117. 


Bovie, Jacob: 135. 




British Secret Service: document 


Bovie, Nicholas P. : 136. 




intercepted, 117. 


Bovie, Nicholas E. : 136. 




Broachim, John: 139. 


Bowman, Frederick: 136. 




Brower, Hendric: 140. 


Bradford, James : 136. 




Brower, Eiehard: 140. 


Bradt, Andries: 136. 




Brown, Abraham: 140. 


Bradt, Anthony D.: 136. 




Brown, Colonel: 105, 106. 


Bradt, Arent A. : 137. 




Brown, John: 140. 


Bradt, Arent S. : 137. 




Burgoyne, General John: 56; sub- 


Bradt, Charles: 137. 




mits plan of campaign to Brit- 


Bradt, Cornelius: 75, 137. 




ish Ministry, 64; arrives at 


Bradt, Elias: 137. 




Crown Point and Ticonderoga, 



INDEX 



289 



71; advances to Fort Edward, 


Cessler, Thomas: 144. 


72; surrender of, 77. 


Chamblee: Schenectady troops as- 


Burnham, William: 140. 


sist in reduction of, 52. 


Burns, Arent: 140. 


Channel, John: 144. 


Burns, David: 140. 


Channel, Thomas: 144. 


Burying ground: remains of 


Charles, Hendriek: 144. 


American soldiers exhumed from. 


Chastelleux, Marquis de: descrip- 


80. 


tion of Indian encampment at 


Butler, Captain Walter: 40, 102; 


Schenectady by, 112, 113. 


attack on Cherry Valley, 88; 


Cherry Valley: alarm of Indian 


killed at West Canada Creek and 


and Tory raids, 65; attacks 


news of death received with re- 


upon, 88, 116. 


joicing at Schenectady, 120. 


Childs, Captain : Continental troops 




at Schenectady under, 76, 


Cahill, John: 140. 


Christiannse, Ahasueras: 144. 


Cain, Barent: 140. 


Christiannse, Isaac: 144. 


Cain, Peter Warren: 140. 


Cilker, William : 145. 


Campbell, Alexander : 4, 58, 59, 60, 


Clark, Henry A. : 145. 


141. 


Clark, Matthis : 145. 


Campbell, Daniel: 4, 21, 58, 60, 


Clark, William: 145. 


142. 


Clement, Arent: 145. 


Campbell, Kenneth : 143. 


Clement, Eldert : 145. 


Canajoharie: no proper store- 


Clement, Johannes: 145. 


houses at, 91; Brant's attack 


Clement, Peter: 145. 


upon, 98, 99. 


Clench, Ealph: 146. 


Canoot, John: 143. 


Clench, Eobert: 122, 146. 


Carley, Joseph: 143. 


Clinton, General James: in Sulli- 


Carleton, General Sir Guy: cam- 


van's Campaign, 91, 92. 


paign against Crown Point and 


Clinton, Governor George: answers 


Ticonderoga, 56; returns to 


Schenectady petition for redress 


winter quarters in Canada, 56; 


of grievances, 82; plea from 


General Burgoyne serving under. 


Schenectady Committee for help 


64. 


in raids of 1778, 86; petitioned 


Carleton, Major Christopher: 79, 


not to reduce forces guarding 


108; takes possession of Fort 


Schenectady, 107; visits Sche- 


Ann, 102. 


nectady and arranges to provide 


Cartwright, Henry: 143. 


stronger defenses, 115. 


Cartwright, John: 143. 


Clute, Bartholomew: 146. 


Cassada (or Cassety), John: 143. 


Clute, Daniel Toll: 147. 


Catlet, Thomas: 144. 


Clute, Frederick: 147. 


Caughnawaga: 96, 98; Indians, 


Clute, Isaac: 147. 


110. 


Clute, Jacob : 148. 


Celder, Abraham: 144. 


Clute, Jacob P. : 148. 


Ceron, Christopher: 144. 


Clute, Jellis: 148. 



290 



INDEX 



Clute, John : 54, 148. 

Clute, John Baptist: 149. 

Clute, John Curtiss: 149. 

Clute, John F. : 149. 

Clute, Peter: 149. 

Cobleskill: raids on, 84, 85. 

Combes, John: 149. 

Commissioners for the Detecting 
and Defeating of Conspiracies: 
20; acceptance of bonds by, 60. 

Committee of Correspondence, Al- 
bany County: organized, 17; 
calls meeting of citizens and 
elects Committee of Safety, 18. 

Committee of Correspondence, 
Schenectady: formation of, sug- 
gested by Albany Sons of Lib- 
erty, 12. 

Committee of Safety, Albany: 
calls on Schenectady for troops 
for Ticonderoga, 23 ; counsels 
moderation toward Sir John 
Johnson, 47; calls on Schenec- 
tady for assistance in Canadian 
expedition, 53 ; applies to Sche- 
nectady Board for troops to 
check British advance from the 
south, 76. 

Committee of Safety, Schenec- 
tady : organization, personnel 
and duties of, 19; relief to poor 
of Boston, 20; petty annoyances 
to members of, 20; first mea- 
sures for defense, 21; votes to 
raise a company for service at 
Fort Ticonderoga, 23; entertains 
band of Oneida Indians, 35; 
difficulty with Sir John Johnson, 
46; measures for assistance in 
Canadian expedition, 53; requi- 
sitions wagons to carry stores to 
Lake George, 55; difficulty with 
Tories in outlying districts, 61; 
Tories watched more closely, 62; 



guard placed upon Mohawk 
Kiver, stockade strengthened 
and barracks built, 62; watch 
established, 66; difficulty of ob- 
taining wagons and men, 67; 
letter to General Schuyler de- 
scribing gloomy situation, and 
requesting reinforcements, 73 ; 
preparation against Tory raid, 
75; settling of disputes, hearing 
of charges and relief of distress, 
78 ; petitioned for redress of 
grievances, 80; petition trans- 
mitted to Governor Clinton, 82; 
plea to governor for assistance 
during raids of 1778, 86. 

Committee of Safety, Tryon 
County: calls for aid against 
Indians, 41 ; letter reporting ar- 
rest and release of John Fonda, 
46; Major John Frey prime 
mover in organizing, 46. 

Conan, Daniel: 149. 

Conde, Adam: 149. 

Conner, Lancaster: 150. 

Conner, Simon: 150. 

Conover, Samuel: 150. 

Consaul, David: 150. 

Consaul, Manuel: 150. 

Conspiracies, Commissioners for 
the Detecting and Defeating of: 
20, 60. 

Continental Army: force protect- 
ing frontier to receive same pay 
as, 90. 

Continental Currency: penalty for 
rejecting, 58; depreciation in, 
95. 

Continental Troops: pleas for 
forces to protect frontier in- 
effectual, 86. 

Corl, Henry: 151. 

Corl, John: 151. 

Corl, William : 151. 



INDEX 



291 



Cornu, Daniel: 152. 


Doty, Eev. John : 60, 124, 158. 


Comu, Wessel: 152. 


Douw, Abraham: 159. 


Cotton Factory Hollow: 112. 


Duane, James: 106. 


Covel, William: 153. 


Duncan, John: 4, 58, 60, 80, 159. 


Crawford, Alexander: 32, 153. 


Duncan, Eichard: 160. 


Crawford, John: 153. 


Dunlap, James: 161. 


Crawford, Joseph: 153. 


Durham boats: 6. 


Crousehorn, John: 115, 153. 


Dutch Eeformed Church: 6, 30, 67, 


Crown Point: occupied by Seth 


125. 


Warner, 23; a Schenectady com- 




pany stationed at, 52; plan for 


Earley, Edward: 161. 


final stand at, 55; abandoned, 


Ellice, Alexander: 162. 


56; Burgoyne arrives at, 71. 


EUice, James: 60, 162. 


Cummings, John: 153. 


Ellice, Eobert: 163. 


Currybush: 32, 59. 


Empie, John: 163. 


Cuyler, Cornelius: 19, 20, 153. 


Exempts: see "Associated Ex- 


Cuyler, John: 154. 


empts. ' ' 


Davis, Abraham: 154. 


Fairly, Caleb: 163. 


Davis, John: 154. 


Fairly, John: 163. 


Dayton, Colonel Elias : 40, 50. 


Felthousen, Christoffel: 163, 


De Garmo, Matthew: 154. 


Felthousen, John: 163. 


Degolyer, James: 155. 


Ferguson, Jane: 120. 


Degolyer, Joseph: 155. 


Fetherly, John: 164. 


De Graff, Abraham: 155. 


Fish, Major Nicholas: stationed at 


De Graff, Andreas: 155. 


Schenectady, 115. 


De Graff, Cornelius: 155. 


Fisher, Jabez Maud: description 


De Graff, Daniel: 155. 


of Schenectady by, 7. 


De Graff, Isaac: 155. 


Flansburgh, William F. : 164, 


De Graff, Jesse: 156. 


Fletcher, : 164. 


De Graff, John: 156. 


Folger, Benjamin: 164. 


De Graff, John N.: 157. 


Folger, Thomas: 164. 


De Graff, Nicholas: 157. 


Fonda, Abraham: 165. 


De Graff, Simon : 157. 


Fonda, Douw: 96. 


De Graff, William: 157. 


Fonda, Jacob G. : 165. 


De La Grange, Myndert: 157. 


Fonda, Jellis Abraham: 34, 120, 


Dellamont, Abraham: 157. 


165. 


Dellamont, Hendrick: 157. 


Fonda, Jellis J.: 22, 30, 166, 


Denny, John: 157. 


Fonda, John: imprisonment, and 


De Spitzer, Aaron: 157. 


release by mob, 45. 


De Spitzer, Gerrit : 158. 


Fonda, N. Y. : see Caughnawaga. 


Dilleno, Hendric: 158. 


Forseth, George: 167, 


Dom, Abraham : 158. 


Fort Ann: taken by Major Carle- 


Dorn, John: 158. 


ton, 102. 



292 



INDEX 



Fort Edward: 52, 69, 71. 

Fort George: threatened, 102. 

Fort Hunter: 60, 97. 

Fort, John: 167. 

Fort, John D. : 167. 

Fort Johnson: 3. 

Fort Kayser: 105. 

Fort Plank: 98. 

Fort Eensselaer: 101, 107, 118. 

Fort St. John's: Schenectady 
troops at siege of, 52. 

Fort Schuyler: 40, 102, 105; 
Brant's feint before, 98, 99; 
Oneidas seek shelter in, 109. 

Fort Squash: 116. 

Fort Stanwix: 7, 39, 117; invest- 
ment of, 74. 

Fort Ticonderoga: 51; occupied by 
Ethan Allen with "Green Moun- 
tain Boys," 23; Americans fall 
back upon, 56; abandoned to 
Burgoyne, 71; Albany and 
Schenectady threatened from, 
116. 

Fort Volunteer: 116. 

Frank, David: 167. 

Freeman, Richard: 167. 

French, David: 168. 

Frey, Major John: 46. 

Freys, Hendriek: 168. 

Frontier: forces raised to protect, 
90, 118; Schenectady becomes, 
92, 93, 95, 107, 114; Massachu- 
setts State Levies detailed to de- 
fend, 102; minor raids on, fol- 
lowing surrender at Yorktown, 
121; return of peace to, 123. 

Furman, John: 168. 

Galloway Settlement: 107. 
Gansevoort, Colonel Peter: 92. 
Gardinier, James: 168. 
Gardner, William: 168. 



German Flats: 74, 83; raids on, 

87, 95. 
Glen, Henry: 19, 33, 47, 81, 91, 

105, 117, 168. 
Glen, Isaac: 87, 169. 
Glen, Jacob: 169. 
Glen, John: 169. 
Glen, John Sanders: 169. 
Goff, Isaac: 169. 
Gordon, Charles: 170. 
Gordon, Joseph: 170. 
Gordon, Eobert: 170. 
Gordon, William : 170. 
Gravenberg, John: 170. 
"Greens," The: 32. 
Gregg, Andrew: 170. 
Gregg, James: 170. 
Gregg, John: 58, 170. 
Groot, Abraham C: 170. 
Groot, Amos: 171. 
Groot, Andrew: 171. 
Groot, Cornelius: 171. 
Groot, Elias: 171. 
Groot, Philip: 171. 
Groot, Simon: 171. 
Groot, Simon A. : 171. 
Groot, Simon C: 171. 
Guthrie, Abraham: 172. 
Guy Park: 15, conference with 

Indians at, 39. 

Hackney, George: 172. 

Hagedorn, Harmanus: 172, 

Hall, John: 172. 

Hall, John W.: 172. 

Hall, Nicholas: 172. 

Hall, William: 172. 

Hand, General: 88; appealed to 
from Schenectady for relief of 
Cherry Valley refugees, 89. 

Hanna, Alexander: 172. 

Hare, Peter: 173. 

Harnel (Harner), Samuel: 173. 

Harper, Colonel John: 96, 97. 



INDEX 



293 



Harpersfield: raid on, 95. 

Harsey, William: 173. 

Hedget, Abraham: 173. 

Hellebergh (Heldeberg) : 107. 

Helmer, Henyost: 173. 

Hendrick, Peter: 173. 

Henry, John: 173. 

Herkimer : Schenectady Militia 
march as far as, in effort to 
overtake enemy, 106. 

Herkimer, Nicholas : presides at 
meeting with Oneida and Tusca- 
rora Indians, 43; commands 
militia at German Flats, 74; de- 
feated at Oriskany, 74. 

Hetherington, Joseph: 173. 

Hilton, Benjamin: 24, 58, 173. 

Hoogteling, Jacobus: 174. 

Hoople, George or Jerry: 174. 

Horsford, John: 174. 

Horsford, Eeuben: 174. 

House, John George: 174. 

House, Peter: 174. 

Howe, General: 56; unjustly criti- 
cized for failure to co-operate 
with Burgoyne, 77. 

Hughan, John: 174. 

Hydenburgh, Sybrant: 174. 

Indian Department : established, 
with three subdivisions, 44. 

Indians: trade with, 7; contention 
for friendship of, 35; efforts to 
incite them against colonists, 
37; appeal by Little Abram, 37; 
Guy Park conference, 39; alarm- 
ing reports of uprising to be 
led by Colonel Guy Johnson, 40; 
colonists try to keep them neu- 
tral, 43; Indian Department es- 
tablished, 44; at Albany confer- 
ence agree not to take up arms, 
45; reassured regarding expedi- 
tion to take Sir John Johnson, 



48 ; effect upon, of withdrawal of 
American forces from Canada, 
64; council at German Flats 
ineffectual, 65; assemble with 
Brant at Oghwaga, 65; council 
at Johnstown, 83; cast their lot 
with British, 83, 109; raids of 
1778 by, 83; Sullivan's Cam- 
paign against, 90; only incites 
retaliation, 93, 109; raid Ball- 
ston and the Schoharie settle- 
ments, 102 ; Oneidas at Schenec- 
tady, 109; raids of 1781 by, 114; 
assembled at Ticonderoga, 116; 
at the burning of Warren's 
Bush, 119; deprived of British 
support, 123. 

"Injin" (or "Engine") Hill: 
112. 

Inland Lock Navigation Company: 
6, 124. 

Iroquois Confederacy: military su- 
premacy of, 1 ; liberal policy 
adopted towards, 123. 

Iroquois Trail, Old: 2. 

Isle Aux Noix: 52. 

Jacquish, John: 174. 

James, William: 174. 

Jessups Patent: 69. 

Johnson, Colonel Guy: succeeds 
Sir William Johnson as Super- 
intendent of Indian Affairs, 15; 
antagonistic to colonists, 15; 
opposes Kirkland 's influence 
with Indians, 35; reported abuse 
of of&ce to promote Indian up- 
rising, 36; his denial to Sche- 
nectady Committee, 36; reports 
of plots against him denied, 39; 
withdraws to Ontario, 40; after 
return to Oswego retires to 
Canada, 42; efforts to counter- 
act his influence with Indians, 
43. 



294 



INDEX 



Johnson, Sir John: succeeds to 
estates of Sir William Johnson, 
15; refuses office of Superin- 
tendent of Indian Affairs, 15; 
antagonistic to colonists, 15; 
fortifies himself in Johnstown, 
46; dispute settled, but trouble 
continues with, 48; expedition 
to apprehend, 48, 62; surrenders 
and is released on parole, 50; 
departs for Canada, 50; warned 
of danger, 58, 59; appearing at 
Tribes Hill conducts raids, 96; 
again escapes to Canada, 97; 
threatens Stone Arabia and Fort 
Schuyler, 101, 102; probable 
connection with Arnold's trea- 
son, 103; surprises Colonel John 
Brown, 105; defeated at Klock's 
Field but escapes with his com- 
mand, 106. 

Johnson, Sir William: settles in 
Mohawk Valley, 3; his restrain- 
ing influence on revolutionary 
element, 14; death, 15; brother- 
in-law of Joseph Brant, 40. 

Johnstown: expedition to take Sir 
John Johnson at, 49, 62; coun- 
cil with Indians at, 83; failure 
to intercept Sir John Johnson 
at, 97; defeat of Major Eoss at, 
120. 

Kees, John: 175. 

Kennedy, Alexander: 175. 

Kennedy, John : 175. 

Kennedy, Samuel: 175. 

King George III: drinking health 
of, penalized, 58. 

Kingsley, Joseph: 58, 60, 175. 

Kinsela, Joseph: 176. 

Kirkland, Eeverend Samuel: un- 
dertakes to win over Oneida 
Indians, 35, 



Kittle, Adam: 176. 

Kittle, Daniel: 176. 

Kittle, David: 176. 

Kittle, Ezra: 176. 

Kittle, John: 176. 

Klock's Field: battle of, 106. 

Lafayette, Marquis de: makes per- 
sonal investigation of conspir- 
acy at Schenectady, 79. 

Lake Champlain: Schenectady ar- 
tisans serve at, 51; General Bur- 
goyne 's army to move southward 
on, 64. 

Lake George: Schenectady com- 
pany ordered to, 26; Schenec- 
tady artisans serve at, 51, 

Lambert, John: 176. 

Lansing, Abraham G. : 176. 

Lansing, Alexander C. : 177, 

Lansing, Cornelius: 177. 

Lansing, Gerrit G. : 177. 

Lansing, John G.: 21, 24, 26, 177, 

Lansing, John S, : 177. 

Laraway, Isaac: 178. 

Latta, William: 178. 

Lewis, Henry: 178. 

Lewis, John: 178. 

Lewis, William: 178, 

' ' Liberty or Death ' ' : motto of 
Schenectady minute men, 32, 

Liddle, Andrew: 178, 

Lighthall, Abraham (Abraham J. 
or W.) : 178. 

Lighthall, George: 179. 

Lighthall, James N. : 179. 

Lighthall, John: 179. 

Lighthall, Lancaster: 180. 

Lighthall, Nicholas: 180. 

Lighthall, William: 180. 

Little Abram: appeals to Magis- 
trates and Committees of Albany 
and Schenectady, 37; meets Gen- 
eral Schuyler at Schenectady, 49, 



INDEX 



295 



Little, David: 181. 




Main, William: 185. 


Little, John: 31, 181. 




Manning, Edward: 185. 


Little, Thomas: 181. 




Manning, John: 185. 


Littlejohn, Duncan: 181. 




Markle, Dirk: 185. 


Lower Fort, Schoharie: 10^ 




Markle, Matthew: 185. 


Loyalist Party: well defined by 


Markle, William: 186. 


1770, 13; helps to call 


Conti- 


Marselis, Ahasueras: 34, 186. 


nental Congress but soon op- 


Marselis, Alexander: 186. 


poses its acts, 13. 




Marselis, Arent: 186. 


Loyalists: activities of, 57; 


treat- 


Marselis, Gysbert: 186. 


ment of, fair in the main, 59; 


Marselis, Henry A. : 186. 


expense of trials charged to, 60; 


Marselis, John Baptist: 33, 187. 


must sign Association or take 


Marselis, John J.: 187. 


Oath of Allegiance, 60; 


excep- 


Marselis, John N. : 187. 


tionally strong in New 


York 


Marselis, Eichard: 188. 


State, 61. 




Martin, Charles: 188. 


Lyne, Matthew: 181. 




Martin, John: 188. 


Lyport, David: 181. 




Martin, Eobert: 24, 188. 


Lyport, Jacob: 181. 




Massachusetts State Levies: de- 
tailed to defend New York 


McBeen, John: 182. 




frontier, 102. 


McCallum, James: 182. 




Mead, William: 188. 


McCarty, John: 182. 




Meal, Carel: 189. 


McCarty, William: 182. 




Mebie, Albert: 189. 


McCue, James: 182. 




Mebie, Arent: 189. 


McDonald, James: 182. 




Mebie, Cornelius: 30, 189. 


McDougal, Duncan: 182. 




Mebie, John: 189. 


McDougal, John: 182. 




Mebie, Juiter: 189. 


McFarlan, Andrew: 182. 




Mebie, Patrick: 189. 


McFarlin, John: 183. 




Mebie, Peter: 189. 


McGinnis, Eobert: 183. 




Mercer, Alexander: 190. 


Mcintosh, John: 183. 




Mercker, William: 190. 


Mclntyre, William: 183. 




Middle Fort, Schoharie: 104. 


McKellop, Archibald : 183. 




Militia, Schenectady: for service 


McKinney, Andrew: 183. 




at Ticonderoga, 23; scale of 


McMartin, William: 184. 




pay, 23; uniforms, 24, 32; diffi- 


McMichael, Alexander: 184. 




culty in obtaining men, 25, 68; 


McMichael, Daniel: 184. 




dissatisfaction with officers ap- 


McMichael, James: 185. 




pointed, 26, 53; recruiting and 


McMichael, Eobert: 185. 




provisioning, 28; duties and 


McNutt, Samuel: 185. 




term of enlistment, 29; unre- 


McQueen, James: 185. 




liability of average, 29; poorly 


Mabb, John: 185. 




paid and equipped, 30, 114; re- 


Mabb, Eobert: 185. 




organization of three companies 



296 



INDEX 



of, 30; minute men incorporated 
with regular militia, 32; three 
more companies formed, 33; for 
relief of Tryon Coimty, 41; as- 
sist in Canadian expedition, 
52; company of fatigue men en- 
listed, 54; to apprehend those 
accused of enmity to country, 
57; strengthen stockades, 62; 
for Wilson's Mill, Ballston, 66; 
disperse Tories at Jessups Pat- 
ent, 69; ordered to Fort Ed- 
ward, 71; retard Burgoyne's 
advance, 72; refusal to join ex- 
pedition to relieve Fort Stan- 
wix, 74; ordered to main army 
but remain to protect Schenec- 
tady, 75; join army at Van 
Schaick's Island, 76; as escort 
to General Poor's brigade, 77; 
guard duty at Schenectady, 78; 
on duty during Indian and Tory 
raids of 1778, 85, 87, 88; their 
part in Sullivan's Campaign, 
92; pursue Brant after attack 
on Canajoharie, 99; on duty 
during Indian and Tory raids at 
Ballston and the Schoharie set- 
tlements, 101, 107, 108; details 
on garrison duty, 118. 

"Militia, Land Bounty Eights": 
121. 

Mils, Chris: 190. 

Minute Men, Schenectady: meet- 
ing to organize companies, 21 ; 
motto of, 32 ; ordered to join in 
apprehending Sir John Johnson, 
48. 

Mitchell, Hugh: 19, 43, 190. 

Mohawk Indians: 49; colonists 
endeavor to secure sympathy of, 
35; Little Abram, chief of 
Lower Castle of, 37; at Guy 
Park conference, 39; from 



Upper Castle follow Colonel 
Johnson, 40. 

Mohawk Eiver: navigable at Sche- 
nectady, 5; to be kept open for 
trade, 49; guarded to prevent 
passage of enemies, 62; St. 
Leger's forces move down, 64; 
fear of enemy's troops appear- 
ing on, 72; General Clinton's 
forces to proceed up, 91, 93; 
superseded in commercial im- 
portance by Erie Canal, 124. 

Mohawk Valley: number and na- 
tionality of settlers on eve of 
Revolution, 2; laid waste, 95. 

Moneer, John: summoned before 
Committee of Safety, 60. 

Moore, John: 190. 

Moore, William: 32, 58, 191. 

Morrell, John: Schenectady Mili- 
tia take part in expedition to 
capture, 69. 

Morrel, Thomas: 191, 

Moyston, Eobert: 191. 

Muller, Jacob, Jr. : 191. 

Munro, Major John: 103, 191. 

Munroe, Alexander: 192. 

Murphy, Timothy: 104. 

Murray, Alexander: 192. 

Murray, John: 192. 

Murray, William: 58, 192. 

Mynderse, Harmen: 192. 

Mynderse, John: 22, 31, 192. 

Mynderse, John E. : 193. 

Mynderse, Lawrence: 31, 193. 

Mynderse, Eeinier: 19, 73, 193. 

Navy, first American: 56. 
Neally, Matthew: 194. 
Neard, Christopher: 194. 
Negroes: to be arrested by watch 

after ten o'clock, 67. 
Neiger, John: 194. 
Nesbit, Joseph: 194. 



INDEX 



297 



Nestle, George: 194, 

New Year's Day: firing of guns 

on, 62, 
Nixon, Joshua: 194, 
Northern Army: detachments of 

Schenectady militia remain with, 

72. 

Oath of Allegiance: Loyalists 
forced to take, 60. 

Ogden, John: 194. 

Ohlen, Henry George: 194. 

Old Fort, Scotia: 31. 

Oneida: Sir John Johnson, Butler 
and Brant at, 102. 

Oneida Indians: Eeverend Samuel 
Kirkland to win over, 35; meet- 
ing with Tryon County Commit- 
tee, 43; do not join forces with 
British, 83; at Schenectady, 
109; attacked for favoring colo- 
nists, 109; supported in Sche- 
nectady at expense of Govern- 
ment, 110; lands granted to, 
123. 

Oothout, Abraham: 19, 32, 33, 43, 
194. 

Oriskany: battle of, 74; Indian 
loss at, 83. 

Ouderkirk, Arent: 195, 

Ouderkirk, John: 195. 

Passage, George: 196. 
Passage, George, Jr, : 196. 
Patterson, Oliver: 196. 
Patterson, Thomas: 196. 
Peace, declaration of: received in 
Schenectady amid rejoicing, 123. 
Peek, Arent: 197. 
Peek, Christopher: 53, 197. 
Peek, Cornelius: 197. 
Peek, Cornelius, Jr.: 197. 
Peek, Daniel: 197. 
Peek, Harmanus: 198, 



Peek, Henry H. : 198. 

Peek, Jacobus C. : 198. 

Peek, Jacobus Vedder: 198, 

Peek, James: 198. 

Peek, James H, (or Jacobus) : 31, 

198. 
Peek, Jesse: 199. 
Peek, John: 33, 199. 
Peek, Joseph: 199. 
Peek, Lewis D. : 200. 
Pendelton, Solomon: 31, 53, 200. 
Peters, Harmon: 116, 201. 
Peters, William: 201. 
Peterson, Charles: 202. 
Peterson, Harmanus: 202. 
Philips, Thomas: 202. 
Phyn, James: 202. 
Phyn & EUice: 4. 
Post, Elias : 202. 
Post, John : 21, 33, 202. 
Presbyterian Meeting House: 6; 

congregation, 124. 
Prices: regulated by Committee of 

Safety, 20. 
Putman, Arent J.: 203. 
Putman, Arent L. : 203. 
Putman, Cornelius: 203. 
Putman, John: 203. 
Putman, Teunis: 203. 
Putnam, Arent: 203. 

Quackenbush, Garardus: 203. 
Quackenbush, John: 203. 

Eaids, Indian and Tory: Cobles- 
kill, 84; Springfield, 87; An- 
drustown, 87; German Flats, 87, 
95; Cherry Valley, 88, 116; 
Harpersfield, 95; Tribes Hill, 
96; Canajoharie, 98; Schoharie, 
99; Ballston and Schoharie 
settlements, 102. 

Rangers, State: company of, 
formed in Schenectady, 61. 



298 



INDEX 



Eamsey, George: 20, 58, 60, 204. 

Eecruiting: general plan of, 28, 
33. 

Eeis, John: 204. 

Eevolutionary movement: rise of, 
11; gains adherents in Mohawk 
Valley, 15. 

Eighter, Michael: 204. 

Eobison, John: 205. 

Eomeyn, Doctor: 125. 

Eosa, Elias: 205. 

Eosa, Isaac: 205. 

Eose, John: 205. 

Eoseboom, John: 19, 24, 34, 35, 
39, 206. 

Eoss, Major: attacks Warren's 
Bush, 119; defeated at Johns- 
town, 120. 

Eykman, Cornelius: 206. 

Eykman, John: 207. 

Eyley, Jacobus: 207. 

Eyley, James Van Slyck: 207. 

Eyley, John : 207, 

Eyley, Philip: 207. 

Eyley, William: 207. 

Eynex, Andrew: 207. 

Eynex, John: 207. 

Eynex, Eichard: 208. 

Sacia, David: 208. 

St. George's Church: attendance 

in 1771, 4; erected, 6; John 

Doty, rector, sent to Canada, 60; 

building and parochial activities 

restored, 124. 
St. John, Thaddeus: 208. 
St. L e g e r , Lieutenant-Colonel 

Barry: 64, 74, 75. 
Salt, scarcity of: 78. 
Sanders, John: 19, 58, 208. 
Sawyer, James: 209. 
Schenectady: description of town 

and inhabitants prior to Eevo- 

lution, 4, 5, 6; forts and other 



defenses of, 7, 8, 9, 31, 62, 123; 
Committee of Safety and first 
militia companies, 17; company 
raised to defend Ticonderoga, 
23 ; militia meets to form com- 
panies, 30; troubled by Tories 
in outlying districts, 61; town 
watch, 66; dejection at, after 
loss of Ticonderoga, 73; rumors 
of investment of Fort Stanwix 
reach, 74; disastrous fire, 78; 
list of grievances submitted to 
Committee of Safety, 80; dis- 
tress and dangers due to Indian 
and Tory raids of 1778, 86, 88, 
89; supplies for Sullivan's Cam- 
paign concentrated at, 91 ; as 
frontier of State, 92, 93, 95, 107, 
114; retirement of citizens to 
Albany, 100; discontinued as 
army post, 102; memorial to 
Governor Clinton not to reduce 
forces guarding, 107; Oneida 
Indians at, 109; threatened 
from Ticonderoga, 116; rejoic- 
ing at death of Butler, 120; 
rumors of attack after York- 
town, 121; General Washing- 
ton's visit, 122. 

Sehermerhorn, Aaron: 209. 

Schermerhorn, Abraham: 209. 

Sehermerhorn, Andrew (Andreas) : 
209. 

Sehermerhorn, Barnhardus Free- 
man: 33, 209. 

Schermerhorn, Bartholomew: 209. 

Sehermerhorn, Gerrit: 210. 

Schermerhorn, Henry J. : 210. 

Schermerhorn, Jacob: 32, 33, 75, 
87, 210. 

Schermerhorn, Jacob: 211. 

Sehermerhorn, Jacob J.: 211. 

Schermerhorn, Jacobus: 211. 

Schermerhorn, John J.: 211. 



INDEX 



299 



Schermerhom, Lawrence: 211, 

Schermerhorn, Maus: 212, 

Schermerhom, Nicholas W, : 212, 

Schermerhorn, Eichard: 212. 

Schermerhorn, Eyer: 212, 

Schermerhorn, Simon: 213. 

Schermerhorn, William: 213, 

Schoharie: 2, 74, 84, 85, 86, 98; 
forts in vicinity of, 104, 

Schoharie settlements: Indian and 
Tory raids on, 101, 103, 

Scotia, old fort: 31. 

Schuyler, Major-General Philip : 
advised concerning delay in 
sending militia to Ticonderoga, 
26; orders relief to Tryon 
County, 41 ; appointed Indian 
Commissioner, 44; sent to appre- 
hend Tories, 48; expedition to 
Johnstown, 49; advocates erec- 
tion of barracks at Schenectady, 
62; calls council at German 
Flats to hold Indians to neu- 
trality, 65; his house at Sara- 
toga rebuilt, 84; investigates 
condition of Oneida Indians at 
Schenectady and personally ad- 
vances funds for their support, 
110; visits Schenectady with 
General Washington, 122. 

Schuyler, Eeuben: 213. 

Seneca Indians: 83. 

Shannon, Alexander: 213, 

Shannon, George: 213, 

Shannon, John: 214, 

Shannon, Eobert: 214. 

Shannon, Thomas: 214, 

Shannon, William: 214. 

Shearer (alias Sherwood), James: 
214, 

Shelling, Alexander: 214, 

Shelly, Samuel: 214, 

Shields, Daniel: 215, 

Simonds, Eeuben: 215. 



Six Nations, Confederacy of: Brit- 
ish and colonists contend for 
friendship of, 35; numbers in 
1773, 35; to be asked to unite 
in measures of peace, 43; Onei- 
das alone favor colonists, 83, 
109. 

Skenesborough : 52, 56, 72. 

Smilie, John: 216. 

Smith, Adam: 216. 

Smith, John: 216. 

Smith, Eobert: 216. 

Snell, Major: 216. 

Snow, Ephraim: 53, 216. 

Speck, Abraham: 217. 

Speck, Tobias: 217, 

Sons of Liberty: first tendencies 
not revolutionary, 1 1 ; Albany 
organization formed, 11; fa- 
vored originally by both Whigs 
and Tories, 11, 13; letter from 
Albany organization to Sche- 
nectady urging organization of 
Committee for Eegulations and 
Correspondence, 12; no evidence 
of organization in Schenectady, 
13; proposed First Continental 
Congress, 13. 

Staley, George: 217. 

Staley, Jacob: 217. 

Staley, Matthias: 217. 

Stanley, John: 218. 

State Eangers: company of, 
formed in Schenectady, 61. 

Steeley, Henry: 218. 

Steers, John: 218. 

Steers, Peter: 218. 

Stevens, John: 218. 

Stevens, Nicholas: 218. 

Stevens, William: 34, 219, 

Stewart, Daniel: 219, 

Stewart, David: 219, 

Stone Arabia: 3, 101, 102. 

Stuart, George: 219. 



300 INDEX 


Stuart, James: 219. 


Ticonderoga: see Fort Ticonder- 


Stuart, John: 219. 


oga. 


Stuart, John : 60, 220. 


Toll, Charles: 228. 


Sullivan, Charles: 221. 


Toll, Daniel: 30, 228. 


Sullivan, Jacob : 32, 221. 


Toll, John: 228. 


Sullivan's Campaign: 90; plan of. 


Tories: from what nationalities re- 


91; only incites Indians to re- 


cruited, 3; unite with Whigs in 


taliation, 93, 109. 


forming Sons of Liberty, 11; 


Swart, Jacobus: 221. 


penalty for associating or cor- 


Swart, James: 221. 


responding with, 58; plots of. 


Swart, Nicholas: 221. 


unearthed everywhere through- 




out New York, 61; close watch 


Swart, Teunis: 30, 31, 221. 


upon, 62; dispersed at Jessups 


Sweet, Caleb : 222. 


Patent, 70; renewing activities, 


Swits, Abraham: 31, 32, 71, 76, 


disarm opponents, 75; attitude 


222. 


less threatening after Bur- 


Swits, Hendrick: 223. 


goyne's reverses, 76; conspiracy 


Swits, Isaac: 223. 


at Schenectady investigated by 


Swits, Jacob: 223. 


Lafayette, 79; raids of 1778 


Swits, Jacob A.: 223. 


by, 83; Sullivan's Campaign 


Swits, Walter: 116, 223. 


against, 90; join Sir John John- 


Swords, Thomas: 223. 


son, 97; raids by, on Ballston 




and Schoharie settlements, 101; 


Taws, David: 224. 


second invasion of Ballston 


Taylor, Solomon: 224. 


threatened by, 108; raids of 


Taylor, Walter: 224. 


1781 by, 114; everywhere in- 


Teller, Jacobus: 19, 224. 


creasing in nmnbers, 114; second 


Teller, John, Jr.: 225. 


raid on Cherry Valley by, 116; 


Teller, William: 225. 


assemble at Ticonderoga, 116; 


Ten Broeck, General Abraham: 71, 


burn Warren's Bush, 119. 


76, 85, 87, 99. 


Treason: persons charged with, 


Ten Eyck, Henry: 225. 


20; of Benedict Arnold, 103. 


Ten Eyck, Jacob T. : 225. 


Truax, Abraham I. : 228, 


Ten Eyck, Myndert : 225. 


Truax, Abraham J.: 31, 228. 


Ten Eyck, Tobias: 19, 226. 


Truax, Abraham P. : 228. 


Terwilliger, Isaac: 226. 


Truax, Andries: 228. 


Terwilliger, Jacobus: 226. 


Truax, Caleb: 229. 


Terwilliger, Solomon: 226. 


Truax, Isaac: 229. 


Thompson, John: 226. 


Truax, Isaac I. : 229. 


Thomson, Peter: 226. 


Truax, Jacob J.: 229. 


Thorn, Samuel: 226. 


Truax, John: 229. 


Thornton, James: 226. 


Truax, John P. : 230. 


Thornton, John: 31, 32, 227. 


Truax, Peter: 230. 


Thornton, Thomas: 228. 


Trumbull, John: 230. 



INDEX 



301 



Tryon County: settlement of, 2; 
taken from Albany County, 39; 
districts composing, 39; appeals 
for aid against Indians, 41; 
friction with Alexander White, 
sheriff of, 45; General Schuyler 
leads expedition to, 48; militia 
assembles at German Flats, 74; 
aid solicited for victims of Sche- 
nectady fire, 78; critical situa- 
tion due to raids of 1778, 86; 
many Tories join enemy, 97. 

Tusearora Indians: 43, 83; lands 
granted to, 123. 

Tuttle, Ezra: 230. 

Tuttle, Solomon: 230. 

Tyms, Michael: 230. 

Unadilla: 84, 88, 98. 

Union College: 125. 

Upper Fort, Schoharie: 104. 

Van Antwerp, Arent J.: 34, 230. 
Van Antwerp, Gerrit: 230. 
Van Antwerp, John: 230. 
Van Antwerp, Peter: 231. 
Van Antwerp, Peter A.: 231. 
Van Antwerp, Simon J.: 231. 
Van Bentheuysen, Martin: 231. 
Van Benthuysen, Peter: 232. 
Van der Bogart, Joseph: 232. 
Van der Bogart, Nicholas: 232. 
Van der Bogart, Tacarus: 51, 232. 
Van Derheyden, Daniel: 232. 
Van Derheyden, David: 232. 
Van der Volgen, Cornelius: 233. 
Van der Volgen, Nicholas: 233. 
Van der Volgen, Peter: 233. 
Van der Werken, Martin: 234. 
Van Driesen, Henry: 234. 
Van Driesen, John: 33, 234. 
Van Driesen, Peter: 234. 
Van Dyck, Cornelius: 22, 24, 26, 
52, 93, 109, 234. 



Van Dyck, Cornelius H. : 235. 
Van Dyck, Cornelius N.: 235. 

Van Dyck, Henry: 235. 

Van Dyck, Henry H. : 235. 

Van Dyck, Henry I. : 235. 

Van Eps, Abraham: 34, 235. 

Van Eps, Abraham I.: 75. 

Van Eps, Alexander: 236. 

Van Eps, Gerrit: 236. 

Van Eps, James: 236. 

Van Eps, John: 237. 

Van Eps, John Baptist: 237. 

Van Eps, John J. : 238. 

Van Ess, Gerrit: 238. 

Van Etten, Benjamin: 238. 

Van Guysling, Cornelius: 238. 

Van Guysling, Elias: 238. 

Van Guysling, Jacob: 239. 

Van Guysling, Peter: 239. 

Van Ingen, Dr. Dirk: 106, 239. 

Van Ingen, John: 239. 

Van Ingen, John Visscher: 240. 

Van Ingen, Joseph: 240. 

Van Patten, Aaron N. : 33, 240. 

Van Patten, Adam: 241. 

Van Patten, Andrew: 22, 30, 241. 

Van Patten, Dirk: 241. 

Van Patten, Frederick: 241. 

Van Patten, Frederick D.: 242. 

Van Patten, Frederick S. : 242. 

Van Patten, Henry: 242. 

Van Patten, John: 22, 30, 242. 

Van Patten, Nicholas: 243. 

Van Patten, Nicholas A.: 243. 

Van Patten, Nicholas H. : 243. 

Van Patten, Nicholas E.: 243. 

Van Patten, Nicholas S.: 243. 

Van Patten, Peter: 244. 

Van Patten, Philip: 244. 

Van Patten, Simon F. : 30, 244. 

Van Eensselaer, General Kobert: 
101; pursues Sir John Johnson, 
104, 105; defeats him at Klock's 
Field, permits his escape, but is 



302 INDEX 


exonerated by Court of Inquiry, 


Van Vranken, Nicholas N. : 252. 


106. 


Van Vranken, Richard: 252. 


Van Santvoord, Cornelius Z. : 33, 


Van Vranken, Eyckert: 253. 


244. 


Vedder, Albert A.: 253. 


"Van Santvoord, Zeger: 245. 


Vedder, Albert H. : 253. 


Van Schaick, Gerrit : 245. 


Vedder, Albert L. : 253. 


Van Schaick, Colonel Goose: 74, 


Vedder, Alexander: 253. 


95, 99. 


Vedder, Arent A. : 254. 


Van Schaick 's Island: 76. 


Vedder, Arent S. : 33, 254. 


Van Sice, Abraham: 245. 


Vedder, Francis: 34, 254. 


Van Sice, Cornelius: 245. 


Vedder, Frederick: 254. 


Van Sice, Gysbert: 245. 


Vedder, Harmanus: 255. 


Van Sice, Isaac: 245. 


Vedder, John: 255. 


Van Sice, Jacobus: 246. 


Vedder, John: 34, 255. 


Van Sice, John : 246. 


Vedder, Nicholas Alexander: 255. 


Van Sice, Joseph: 246. 


Vedder, Philip: 30, 255. 


Van Slyck, Adrian: 246. 


Vedder, Simon: 59. 


Van Slyck, Andrew: 246. 


Vedder, Simon H. : 256. 


Van Slyck, Anthony: 246. 


Vedder, Colonel Volkert: 97. 


Van Slyck, Arent: 246. 


Veeder, Parent: 256. 


Van Slyck, Cornelius A.: 87, 246. 


Veeder, Claus: (see Veeder, Mich- 


Van Slyck, Cornelius P.: 22, 24, 


ael). 


26, 69, 246. 


Veeder, Cornelius: 256. 


Van Slyck, Harmanus: 247. 


Veeder, Gerrit (S. or N.) : 22, 31, 


Van Slyck, Harmanus A.: 247. 


53, 256. 


Van Slyck, Jesse: 34, 247. 


Veeder, Helmar S.: 256. 


Van Slyck, Martin: 248. 


Veeder, Hendrick: 257. 


Van Slyck, Peter: 248. 


Veeder, John B. : 257. 


Van Slyck, Samuel: 248. 


Veeder, John H. : 257. 


Van Veghten, Anthony: 46. 


Veeder, Michael: 51. 


Van Vleck, Benjamin: 248. 


Veeder, Nicholas G.: 257. 


Van Vorst, Abraham: 249. 


Veeder, Nicholas P.: 32, 258. 


Van Vorst, Ahasueras: 249. 


Veeder, Peter S. : 258. 


Van Vorst, James: 249. 


Veeder, Simon: 258. 


Van Vorst, James J.: 249. 


Veeder, Simon B. : 259. 


Van Vorst, Jellis: 249. 


Veeder, Simon H. : 259. 


Van Vorst, John B. : 250. 


Veeder, Wilhelmus: 259. 


Van Vorst, John Jacob: 250. 


Viele, PhUip: 259. 


Van Vorst, Peter: 251. 


Visscher, Colonel Frederick: 96, 


Van Vorst, Philip D. : 34, 251. 


122. 


Van Vranken, Derick: 251. 


Visscher, Harman: 96. 


Van Vranken, Gerrit: 251. 


Visscher, John: 96. 


Van Vranken, Maus: 251. 


Visscher, John: 260. 


Van Vranken, Nicholas: 252. 


Visscher, John, Jr.: 260. 



INDEX 



303 



Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 
Vrooman 



Abraham: 260. 
Adam: 261. 
Adam S.: 261. 
Arent: 261. 
Barent: 261. 
Cornelius: 261. 
David: 262. 
Hendrick: 262. 
Isaac: 262. 
Jacob A.: 262. 
Jacob I.: 262. 
Jacob J.: 262. 
Jacob S.: 51, 84, 262. 
John B.: 31, 33, 263. 
John J. : 263. 
John T.: 263. 
Lawrence: 30, 263. 
Nicholas: 264. 
Colonel Peter: 98. 
Simon J. : 264. 
Walter: 34, 265. 



Waggerman, George: 266. 

Waggerman, Michael: 266. 

Wagner, Andrew: 266. 

Wagner, Michael: 266. 

Wagner, Nicholas: 266. 

Ward, Christopher: 266. 

Warn, Eichard: 267. 

Warn, Samuel: 267. 

Warner, Colonel Seth: 23, 69. 

Warren's Bush: 3; attack upon, 
119. 

Washington, General George: 62; 
directs Sullivan's Campaign, 90; 
informed of Brant's attack on 
Canajoharie, 99; visits Albany 
and Schenectady, 121, 122. 

Wasson, James: 267. 

Wasson, John: 267, 

Wasson, Thomas: 31, 268. 

Wasson, Thomas J.: 268. 

Watch: establishment and regula- 



tions of, 66; militia to guard 

town, 75, 78. 
Watson, Alexander: 268. 
Weller, Frederick: 268. 
Weller, Eobert: 269. 
Welsh, John: 24, 269. 
Wemple, Abraham: 31, 32, 53, 65, 

68, 77, 84, 85, 99, 107, 269. 
Wemple, Barent (Wemp, Barna- 
bas) : 269. 
Wemple, John: 270. 
Wemple, John J.: 270. 
Wemple, John E.: 270. 
Wemple, John T. : 270. 
Wemple, Myndert: 270. 
Wemple, Myndert A.: 22, 30, 31, 

270. 
Wemple, Myndert M. : 32, 55, 271. 
Wemple, Myndert E.: 22, 271. 
Wemple, Eyer: 271. 
Wendel, Ahasueras: 271. 
Wendell, Harmanus H. : 19, 47, 

52, 271. 
Wendell, John Baptist: 271. 
Wessel, Arent: 272. 
Wessel, Harmanus: 272. 
West Canada Creek: engagement 

at, 120. 
Westina, the: 21, 30, 61. 
Wheaton, Eeuben: 272. 
Wheaton, Thomas: 273. 
Whig Party: well defined by 1770, 

13. 
White, Alexander : sheriff of Tryon 

County, arrests John Fonda, 45; 

leaves Johnstown, 47. 
White, William: 19, 35, 273. 
Wiest, Conrad: 273. 
Wiley, John: 273. 
Willet, Colonel Marinus: 118, 119, 

120. 
Williams, Cornelius: 273. 
Williams, Jacob: 273. 
Williams, William, 2d: 274. 



304 




INDEX 


Wilson, James: 19, 274. 






Yates, Christopher P.: 45, 46, 


Winne, Anthony: 274. 






Yates, JeUis: 34, 276. 


Woestyne: see Westina. 
Wood, James: 274. 
Wood, John: 274. 
Wright, John: 274. 
Wynkoop, Colonel Cornelius 


D.: 


Yates, John: 276. 

Yates, Nicholas: 30, 276. 

Yorktovm: surrender of Lord 
Comwallis at, 120; period fol- 
lowing, 121. 


Wyoming massacre : 87, 






Young, Benjamin: 33, 277. 
Young, Calvin: 277. 


Yates, Abraham: 275. 






Young, Frederic: 277. 


Yates, Christopher: 19, 


32, 39 


72, 


Young, Guy: 277. 


84, 85, 92, 275. 






Young, Seth: 277. 




014 224 462 7 



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